Kenya’s digital innovation landscape received a major boost on Thursday as Latitude59, Estonia’s flagship startup and technology forum, officially opened its 2025 Kenyan edition in Nairobi.
The high-level event, now in its 3rd year in the country, has drawn more than 2,500 participants, including nearly 500 startup representatives, close to 200 investors, and delegates from 50 countries across Africa, Europe, Asia, and North America.
The forum was inaugurated by the Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, William Kabogo, Estonia’s Ambassador-at-Large for African Affairs, Daniel Schaer, and the European Union Ambassador to Kenya, Henriette Geigeris.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, CS Kabogo described Latitude59 as a strategic platform for nurturing innovation and strengthening international cooperation.
He noted that although Kenya and Estonia are separated by thousands of kilometres, they share a strong commitment to digital transformation and a belief in the power of technology to shape more inclusive societies.
“Latitude59 is a bridge connecting ecosystems, capital and ideas. This edition comes at a time when Kenya continues to solidify its digital foundations from data governance to cyber security to create trust, attract investment, and unlock new opportunities for innovators,” noted the CS.
Additionally, Kabogo highlighted the country’s recently launched National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, terming it a major step toward positioning Kenya as a continental leader in responsible AI development.
He added that Kenya’s greatest strength lies in its people, especially the young innovators building practical solutions in universities, community hubs, and early-stage startups.
“The most compelling story is not found in companies; it is found in our people building solutions. It is found in young innovators across the country who increasingly view Kenya not only as a market but as a gateway to Africa’s production frontier,” Kabogo reiterated.
Further, the CS urged participants to take advantage of the forum to build new partnerships, explore bold ideas, and develop solutions that transcend borders.
He also emphasized that Kenya’s innovation journey, marked by adaptability and creativity, aligns closely with Estonia’s globally acclaimed digital model.
“Together, we have an opportunity to build a model of collaboration that inspires other global leaders,” Kabogo rallied as he officially opened the Latitude59 Kenya 2025.
Latitude59 Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Liisi Org, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to connecting global innovation ecosystems.
She noted that Estonia’s experience as a highly digitized nation demonstrates the value of collaboration and trust-based digital systems.
“We are not only in Kenya; we are building a global village. Every ecosystem has its own strengths, and our mission is to bring them together so that solutions built locally can scale globally,” demonstrated the CEO as she linked this philosophy to the African concept of ubuntu, which highlights shared humanity and interconnectedness.
In addition, Org observed that Latitude59 has expanded steadily in recent years, with international editions already held in Singapore, South Africa, and Canada.
She disclosed that the organisation plans to continue growing its global footprint as part of its long-term strategy to strengthen cross-border innovation networks.
Estonia’s Ambassador-at-Large for Africa, Daniel Schaer, reaffirmed Estonia’s enduring commitment to Kenya stating: “Estonia is in Kenya and we are here to stay. We are coming to cooperate, co-create and learn from you.”
He also noted that digital partnerships between Europe and Africa will play a central role in shaping future economic growth.
Notably, this year’s programme features nearly 100 speakers, among them Taavi Kotka, one of the architects of Estonia’s digital transformation, who was expected to share insights into how Estonia built one of the world’s most advanced digital societies.
Also, Dr. Myriam Sidibé, a global expert in public health and social impact was by press time expected to address pathways for achieving inclusive and sustainable development through innovation.
Meanwhile, Latitude59 Kenya 2025 is being delivered in partnership with ESTDEV under the Digital and Green Innovation (DGI) Programme, part of the European Union’s D4D Hub Twin Transition Team Europe Initiative. Additional strategic partners include Civitta, Smart Africa, Belva, KOOD, the Estonian Business and Innovation Agency (EIS), and Fienta.
The forum aims to strengthen cooperation between African and European digital ecosystems, expand market access for African startups, and promote technologies that support sustainable, human-centred development.
In the meantime, Latitude59 remains Estonia’s premier technology and startup event. Its 13th main edition, held in Tallinn, Estonia in May 2024, attracted more than 3,500 participants from over 70 countries.
By Michael Omondi and Lucy Mwende
