Margaret Ndung’u, with over two decades of experience in the ICT sector, stands as a distinguished figure in the digital ecosystem of Kenya. She is currently tapped to become the nation’s Cabinet Secretary (CS) for ICT and Digital Economy, succeeding her predecessor Eliud Owalo.
Her extensive career spans various roles and sectors, reflecting her profound expertise in digital policy, innovation, and ICT development.
Ndung’u commenced her professional journey at Africa Online Holdings, where she honed her skills as a content editor and web designer, laying the foundation for her future endeavours in ICT.
Her passion for digital development led her to Econews Africa, where she served as a research officer, spearheading the establishment of tele centers across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, a project funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC).
At Amref Kenya, Ndung’u took on the role of ICT Officer and Telemedicine Coordinator, further expanding her expertise in integrating ICT solutions into mobile health services. In her position at AfriAfya, she coordinated a regional research project funded by IDRC, focusing on the application of ICT in HIV/AIDS response across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Botswana, and South Africa.
Ndung’u’s analytical skills shone at the Global e-Schools and Communities Initiative (GESCI), where she evaluated countries’ progress towards becoming knowledge societies, with a focus on ICT, innovation, science and technology, and education.
As a research fellow and guest lecturer, Ndung’u contributed to the academic community by sharing her insights and research findings at Tshwane University of Technology, South Africa. She also played a major role as a national consultant at the International Trade Centre, improving export competitiveness in Kenya’s ITES sector. In addition to her research roles, she also served as a part-time lecturer at the School of Computing and Informatics, University of Nairobi.
Ndung’u worked on the Digital Economy Country Diagnostic, Digital Infrastructure, and Digital Platforms pillars of the Kenya Digital Economy at the World Bank. Her regulatory expertise was recognized by the Ministry of Information and Communication Technologies, Kenya, where she served on the Communications and Multimedia Appeals Tribunal (CAMAT).
ALSO READ: NIGERIA: IHS, MTN EXTEND TOWER DEAL TO 2032
At GFA Consulting Group GmbH, Ndung’u contributed to the Policy and Regulation Initiative for Digital Africa (PRIDA) in Ethiopia, focusing on ICT regulatory and internet governance. PRIDA is a joint initiative of the African Union (AU), the European Union (EU) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
Ndung’u founded INIIT Kenya, further demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to ICT innovation. As a research associate, she continued to delve into the intricacies of ICT in Africa, contributing valuable research and insights. She serves on the editorial board of LONDA (Digital Rights and Inclusion Annual Reports), showcasing her dedication to digital rights and inclusion.
Her efforts in cybersecurity are highlighted by her role as a director and founding member of Network of African Women in Cybersecurity (NAWC), advocating for the representation and inclusion of African women in cybersecurity.
In her current role, Ndung’u continues to drive digital inclusion initiatives globally, reinforcing her status as a leading figure in the field.
Ndung’u’s career trajectory is a receipt of her unfettered commitment to digital innovation and policy. Her contributions have significantly shaped the digital landscape in Kenya and beyond, positioning her as a key player in the global digital economy.
