- William Kabogo says leadership skills are more important than technical ICT knowledge.
- He believes his public service experience is what earned him the Cabinet post.
- The Ministry is struggling with inefficiencies, delays, and outdated systems.
- Kabogo has introduced hands-on leadership and is pushing for accountability.
- Key reforms include a paperless system and a citizen-leader digital platform.
- He remains unbothered by online criticism over his ICT background.
ICT and Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo has dismissed claims that he lacks the technical background for the job, saying the Ministry requires strong leadership—not necessarily someone with ICT training.
Speaking to Capital FM, the former Kiambu Governor compared running a tech ministry to managing a hospital.
“You don’t have to be a surgeon to run a hospital. ICT is not about expertise; it’s about keeping up,” he said.
Ruto Appointed Me for My Experience
Kabogo said his entry into the Cabinet was not by chance but based on a long record in public leadership. He credited President William Ruto for recognizing his experience in government affairs and management.
“It’s leadership that got me here,” he explained, adding that his years of public service built the foundation for his current role.
Despite his confidence, Kabogo admitted that the Ministry is dealing with serious organizational problems. He cited an example where a government agency couldn’t even confirm how many staff it had due to a broken payroll system.
“I ordered the use of biometrics. They acted six weeks later—that’s too slow,” he noted, stressing the need for urgency.
To address these problems, Kabogo said he has adopted a more involved approach. He now makes regular field visits to different offices and demands results from staff.
“I bring energy and action. I want to see things moving. I won’t accept laziness,” he declared.
One of his biggest achievements so far is shifting the Ministry to a fully paperless operation from April 7th, 2025. Kabogo believes digitization is the future, and he wants to be at the center of that transformation.
“Let me be remembered as the one who made government digital,” he said, despite admitting that not everyone in the public sector welcomes change.
Citizens to Interact with Ministers Online
Kabogo revealed an upcoming digital project where Kenyans will be able to engage with Cabinet Secretaries through an online platform.
“We’ll create a portal where ministers can speak to citizens at least two hours a week,” he announced, saying public views will help improve services.
Addressing recent criticism about his ICT knowledge, Kabogo said he was not upset by the memes or online jabs thrown at him.
“Kenyans have the right to express themselves. I saw the memes. I didn’t even understand most of them,” he joked.
Despite the backlash and doubts, Kabogo is focused on pushing reforms to improve Kenya’s digital future. His goal is to create a more efficient, connected, and modern government that works for the people.
