By Josiah Kariuki
Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications Stephen Isaboke faced the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Communication, Information and Innovation on Thursday.
He presented and explained the State Department’s Supplementary I Budget for the 2025/2026 financial year.
The meeting, led by John Kiarie, included Members of Parliament and senior government officials who reviewed proposed budget changes for the State Department overseeing the nation’s communications and digital infrastructure.
In the discussion, Isaboke detailed major priorities in the supplementary budget, emphasizing continued funding for broadcasting infrastructure, growth in telecommunications services, and enhancement of Kenya’s digital ecosystem.
He informed the committee that consistent financial support in this sector is crucial to realize the nation’s goal of establishing an inclusive digital economy that empowers people, improves service delivery, and generates business opportunities.
“The perspectives and input from Members of Parliament are extremely valuable,” Isaboke stated.
“Effective cooperation between the executive and legislative branches guarantees that digital sector investments produce tangible advantages for all Kenyan citizens.”
Members of Parliament utilized the platform to inquire about implementation strategies, supervision mechanisms, and the long-term viability of extensive digital initiatives as the government advances its digital modernization program.
The committee also explored how the modified budget distributions will back ongoing projects focused on extending digital connectivity, especially in rural and underprivileged regions.
Legislators emphasized that better digital infrastructure remains vital for improving education, innovation, entrepreneurship, and access to public information.
Isaboke stressed that closing the digital gap remains a fundamental objective for the State Department, mentioning that improved connectivity will enable more Kenyans to engage in the worldwide digital economy.
He attended the committee meeting with senior representatives from the State Department and leaders of various agencies in the communications and digital sector, highlighting the inter-agency collaboration necessary to execute the government’s digital strategy.
This appearance is part of the wider parliamentary budget review procedure where government departments introduce and substantiate additional allocations before the National Assembly.
Lawmakers will evaluate if the suggested financial modifications correspond with national development goals and promote openness in public expenditure.
Thursday’s conversations reinforced the critical function of digital infrastructure, innovation, and connectivity in boosting economic advancement and broadening opportunities in Kenya’s progressively technology-oriented economy.