Information Communication Technology (ICT) is a fundamental infrastructural facility and application system in the current globalized economy. It is the major contributor to the 4th industrial revolution. Access to and usage of ICTs is essential for enhanced socio-economic development of the citizens in the EAC. There are indications of steady and impressive developments in ICT infrastructure and services in the Partner States, as exemplified by fixed voice and mobile subscriptions; access to and utilization of backbone carrier networks; access to radio and television broadcast services; access to and use of internet services; and tariffs on communications services, although a lot more still need to be done. With the exception of fixed voice telephony and postal mail services, both of which are declining, all other available access indicators point to sustained growth in the sector across the region. For instance, mobile Phone penetration is steadily increasing in all Partner States, with current penetration rates ranging between 50 percent and 75 percent. The major challenge in ICT in the EAC is in the application to address a myriad of challenges faced in the region by business, governance, security, health, and food security among others. It is, therefore, imperative for the region to embrace digital economy based on digital computing technologies. It is well known fact that embracing digital economy reduces costs of doing business while increasing the competitiveness of locally produced goods and services in the international market. Research and development in ICT application in all sectors of the economy is crucial if the region is to attain its vision of becoming an upper middle economy by 2030. The major areas of research, development and innovation, guided by the regions competitive advantages are the service and productive sectors. These areas require ICT technological interventions to further catapult them through increased efficiency and effectiveness.
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