Nairobi City County Government, through its Innovation and Digital Economy Sector, launched the Jericho Incubation Hub, a pioneering digital innovation and entrepreneurship centre located in Harambee Ward, Makadara Sub-County. The iHub aims to equip young people with essential digital skills, foster innovation, and support startup growth at the grassroots level.
Speaking during the launch, County Executive Committee Member for Innovation and Digital Economy, Mike Gumo, underscored that the County’s goal is to make technology accessible to every ward, empowering residents to build sustainable livelihoods through innovation.
“This is not just an ICT facility. It is a lifeline for our youth. We are bridging the digital divide and taking innovation directly to our people. Nairobi’s digital economy must work for everyone, not just the privileged few. I urge the youth to take advantage of this iHub. Your ideas, your creativity, and your determination will define Nairobi’s next generation of innovators.”
Chief Officer for Digital Economy and Startups, Sande Oyolo, emphasized that the Hub is the first step in a broader plan to decentralize innovation services across all 85 wards.
“This is only the beginning. Our goal is to have iHubs in every ward, ensuring that digital empowerment and entrepreneurship opportunities reach every corner of the county”.
Oyolo added that the initiative aligns with Governor Sakaja’s strategy to bring services closer to the people, citing Dishi na County as a flagship example of decentralization done right.
County Chief Officer, Smart Nairobi, Wilson Gakuya tied the launch to the ongoing Nairobi County Customer Service Week, themed “Mission Possible”, emphasizing that the establishment of the Jericho iHub reflects the County’s commitment to making innovation and service delivery accessible to all.
He noted that the iHub’s success would lay the groundwork for future digital centres across Nairobi’s Sub Counties urging young people to embrace continuous learning, take initiative, and create their own opportunities in the evolving digital landscape.
County Director for Digital Economy and Startups, Elizabeth Ndungu, commended the partnerships driving the initiative and encouraged youth to fully utilize the resources made available through the Hub.
“The Jericho iHub demonstrates what collaboration can achieve. We are opening doors for our youth to learn, innovate, and connect with opportunities that can transform their lives. The County is fully committed to ensuring that every ward becomes a centre of digital excellence,” she said.
ICDL Africa Regional Manager Peter Maina commending Nairobi County for being the first county accredited as an ICDL examination centre, noted that technology is inevitable and digital literacy is the new currency that will anchor Nairobi’s future competitiveness in the global economy.
Computer Aid Kenya Representative Martin Kuria reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to bridging the digital divide, urging young people to take advantage of emerging opportunities in the digital space and leverage technology to create meaningful employment and innovation.
Jericho Incubation Hub is a collaboration between Nairobi City County and Computer Aid Kenya, with strategic partnerships from ICDL Africa and Amazon Web Services (AWS). It is designed to serve as a one-stop community hub offering digital literacy training, startup incubation, mentorship, hackathons, innovation challenges, women’s empowerment initiatives, and children’s coding programs.
The event was attended by officers from the Innovation and Digital Economy Sector, Nespak, Secretary General and CEO Jade Hussein, Harambee Ward Administrator Leah Nguru, Sub County Administrator Florence Ambia, Harambee ward Commander Lucy Munyika, Muiaa Limited Antonio Omambia, Representative for MCA Harambee Ward Anthony Kimemia Gathumbi , Resident Association chairman together with area residents.
