by MARIA MACHARIA
NAIROBI – KENYA is exploring partnerships with the major United States semiconductor company, Micron Technology, as the East African country positions itself as a global leader in the industry.
A government delegation comprising officials from the Broadcasting and Telecommunications department and the Office of the President, have met a delegation of Idaho state-based Micron for discussions.
Among these are Steve Isaboke, Permanent Secretary: Broadcasting and Telecommunications, and Monica Juma, the National Security Advisor, met Bo Machayo, the head of US Government and Public Affairs for Micron, on Monday.
They discussed opportunities in the semiconductor industry, including workforce development and manufacturing.
“We discussed possible areas of collaboration including workforce development in the semiconductor industry, which would offer opportunities for youth and also building an ecosystem that supports semiconductor manufacturing in the country,” Isaboke said after the meeting in Nairobi.
He added Kenya was positioning itself as a regional tech hub within East Africa.
“We are rapidly digitising all aspects of our economy. Due to this, public-private partnerships (PPPs) are critical in advancing our digital transformation,” Isaboke said.
In 2024, Kenya announced it was positioned to expand a CHIPS and Science Act (2022) agreement with the US, pledging to enhance local semiconductor capabilities.
The Act provides over US$52 billion in funding and incentives for semiconductor research, development and manufacturing as well as authorising funding for scientific research and development initiatives to boost American technological leadership and national security.
Semiconductors power modern electronic device and advanced technology, from smartphones and cars to medical equipment and artificial intelligence (AI) systems.
– CAJ News
