Kenya Launches Bold Plan to Turn Public Data Into Revenue
On June 8, 2026, details emerged of Kenya’s plan to commercialise government-held data under the Draft Final National Data Governance Policy released in May 2026.
Consequently, the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy (MICDE) aims to transform data into a strategic national asset.
The policy treats data as an economic resource capable of generating revenue and driving innovation. Additionally, the government hopes to strengthen public planning through data-driven decision-making.
National Data Marketplace Planned
The proposed framework introduces a public-sector data marketplace. Consequently, approved users will access anonymised and aggregated datasets through a regulated platform.
The government estimates the project will cost approximately KSh 396 million over five years. Additionally, the marketplace will offer licensing models and tiered pricing structures.
Certain datasets will remain free for public-interest research and development projects. The policy targets the exchange of at least 1,000 datasets within five years.
Which Data Will Be Available?
The government plans to commercialise only non-personal and aggregated data. Consequently, users may access business registration trends and economic activity statistics.
Additionally, immigration application volumes and vehicle registration data may become available. The platform may also provide regional birth, death, and marriage registration trends.
Agricultural production statistics and traffic flow patterns could also be included. However, authorities will not sell information that identifies individuals.
Personal Data Remains Protected
The policy strictly excludes personal identifiable information from commercial use. Consequently, names, phone numbers, email addresses, and national ID numbers will remain protected.
Additionally, biometric records, personal photographs, and sensitive personal information cannot be sold.
The framework aligns with the Data Protection Act, 2019. Therefore, officials insist privacy protections will remain a top priority.
READ ALSO: The KSh 1.3 Trillion eCitizen “Loss”: Fact vs Fiction
New Oversight Institutions Proposed
The government plans to establish a National Data Governance and Emerging Technologies Council. Additionally, it will create a dedicated Data Governance Office.
These institutions will oversee standards, licensing, compliance, and marketplace operations. Consequently, authorities hope to improve accountability and transparency.
Researchers and Businesses Expected to Benefit
Approved buyers will include businesses, researchers, innovators, and non-governmental organizations. Consequently, organisations can use the data to develop products, services, and policy solutions.
The ministry drew inspiration from countries such as Singapore and the United Kingdom. These nations already generate significant revenue through regulated public-data systems.
Public Concerns Persist
Despite the projected benefits, the proposal continues to attract scrutiny. Consequently, digital rights groups have raised concerns about privacy and data security.
Additionally, experts warn that advanced artificial intelligence tools may enable data re-identification. As stakeholder consultations continue, the government says it will address concerns before implementation.
