Former ICT CS Margaret Nyambura named senior researcher in UN-backed initiative

Former ICT Cabinet Secretary (CS) Margaret Ndung’u.

Former ICT Cabinet Secretary Margaret Nyambura Ndung’u has been appointed as senior researcher and digital policy specialist at the Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Safeguards Strategic Advisory Board, an initiative by the United Nations Office for Digital and Emerging Technologies (ODET) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

In a LinkedIn post, the former CS expressed gratitude for her new role and shared her enthusiasm about the opportunity to apply her expertise in promoting sustainable governance of digital infrastructure.

“Feeling honored to join brilliant minds on the DPI Safeguards Strategic Advisory Board, steered by UNDP and ODET. Together, we’ll guide policy, forge partnerships, and support countries in mainstreaming safeguards that leave no one behind,” she stated. 

The DPI Safeguards Strategic Advisory Board’s main task is to provide independent guidance on the adoption of the digital infrastructure framework, its country-level implementation, and its long-term evolution.

Some of the roles include mobilising stakeholders, addressing emerging risks and educating the public. 

“My aim is to play a central role in large-scale dissemination efforts, raise awareness and drive broad engagement to enhance understanding of the Framework’s significance and its broader impact using my varied networks at the national, continental and international level,” she added. 

Nyambura is a renowned expert in the IT sector, possessing immense experience in internet infrastructure, AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, and data governance. 

She has also largely contributed to the African Union’s digital transformation strategy for education, health, and agriculture sectors.

Among her accolades include developing and implementing the African Union Data Policy Framework, coordinating a six-module online Internet Governance curriculum used by 30 national and regional schools across Africa and developing a 10-module course for the Pan African University Institute, tailoring it to the e-skills of participants.

In the past, she worked as a consultant at the ICT Authority in the Education Ministry and as a Senior Research Manager in Gender Justice in Stem Research in Africa (GeJuSTA).

Following the 2024 Gen Z-led protests, Nyambura was among the fresh faces appointed by President William Ruto to his Cabinet, where she was tasked with leading the ICT sector.

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