ICT and Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo has defended his appointment to the influential docket, stating that leadership, not technical expertise, is what the Ministry needs most.
In a candid interview with Capital FM, Kabogo dismissed the notion that one must be a seasoned ICT professional to steer the ministry effectively. “To run a hospital, you don’t need to be a surgeon. In this field, there is no expert,” said the former Kiambu Governor and two-time Juja MP. “If you keep up with the times, you should keep up with ICT things.”
Kabogo attributed his Cabinet appointment to his leadership experience, saying President William Ruto recognized his track record in public service. “What brought me here was leadership. It was my experience that brought me to government,” he emphasized.
However, Kabogo acknowledged that the Ministry is grappling with systemic inefficiencies and a culture of inertia. He cited instances of disorganization, including agencies unable to account for staff numbers due to fragmented payroll systems. “I directed that we need biometrics in that agency. They did that yesterday, six weeks later,” he recounted, describing the delays as unacceptable.
Determined to transform the Ministry, Kabogo revealed he has introduced a hands-on leadership style, personally visiting offices to monitor progress and enforce accountability. “This energy I bring is to keep things moving. I am causing things to happen, and I am firm that we must do the right thing,” he asserted.
One of his flagship achievements is the Ministry’s transition to a paperless system, effective April 7th, 2025. Kabogo vowed to spearhead the creation of a fully digitized government, despite acknowledging resistance to change within the public sector. “I want to be the one who made the government digital,” he declared.
Among upcoming reforms is the development of a national digital engagement portal, designed to give citizens direct access to leaders. “We want ministers to have two hours talking to Kenyans,” said Kabogo, stressing that public feedback is crucial to improving governance.
Responding to recent online criticism questioning his ICT competence, Kabogo appeared unfazed. “We should allow Kenyans to express. You saw how they attacked me with memes. I really didn’t know them, and that is what we expect as a country.”
While his leadership style may draw scrutiny, Kabogo remains resolute in his mission to modernize Kenya’s digital infrastructure, one reform at a time.
Written By Rodney Mbua
