Mercy Wanjau, Peter Njonjo, Ory Okolloh appointed to COVID-19 ICT advisory team

Communications Authority acting Director-General Mercy Wanjau has been appointed as Chairperson of the COVID-19 ICT advisory committee.

In a gazette notice dated April 21, Cabinet Secretary Joe Mucheru said the 15-member team will coordinate ICT-specific responses to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“They term of office for the Advisory Committee shall be for a duration of six months and the Cabinet Secretary may, where necessary, extend the said term for such a period as he may deem necessary,” the notice reads.

Peter Njonjo, the CEO and Co-Founder of Twiga Foods, has been appointed to serve as Vice Chairperson of the COVID-19 ICT advisory committee.

Members are Dr. Joseph Sitienei, Ory Okolloh, Dr. Shikoh Gitau, Hilda Moraa, Dr. Fernando Wangila, Mahmoud Noor and Kevin Atibu.

Others are James Njeru, Mercy Tepla, Alvin Amuyunzu, Rahab Juma, Angustus Munywoki and John Kiria.

They will be expected to develop and implement a framework for identifying, supporting and scaling of local ICT solutions that can support the country in its efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic effects.

The team has also been tasked with establishing an enabling environment that will stimulate economic development through ICTs and increased digital employment by supporting enterprises, workers, investments and skills development.

In addition, the Mercy Wanjau-led team will support the National and County Emergency Response Committee on COVID-19 on any matters that may require ICT intervention.

Other terms of reference for the committee are to coordinate innovators, academia, the private sector and well-wishers on utilization of solutions that address the effects of the pandemic and beyond.