Two Kenyans named among world's 100 most influential people in digital government

david nganga

August 20, 2018 11:39 AM

The two were among six Africans in the inaugural list including Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo.

Two Kenyans have been listed among the world’s 100 most influential people in digital government.

Philip Thigo, the lead on data and innovation at the office of the Deputy President and Linet Kwamboka, the founder and CEO of DataScience Ltd, were recognised for their role in digital transformation of governments.

The list, compiled by Apolitical Group based in London, is the first of kind and acknowledges individuals who have excelled using digital technology in entrepreneurship, journalism, government and business.

Mr Thigo is credited for co-creating unique technology initiatives such as Apps4Africa together with the US State Department and Uchaguzi, an initiative to help monitor elections.

He currently serves as the point of contact for Open Government Partnership for Kenya.

Ms Kwamboka, on the other hand, was recognized for helping co-ordinate the Open Kenya initiative, a project designed to open government data to the public in reusable formats.

Digital service

Mr Akufo-Addo has launched a number of initiatives that have significantly improved digital services in the country and gained a reputation as one of the most advanced digital societies in Africa.

“People working in digital government often go unrecognised by the wider public, yet the work they do is vital as both the opportunities and risks of digital technologies increase” said Apolitical CEO Robyn Scott.

“It’s a been a joy to produce this list recognising the most influential individuals in the field – including some incredible unsung heroes – from around the world.”

david nganga