Where Policy Meets Digital Networks

“We are always involved in charting the way together with the government to have the right policies.” Fiona Asonga, CEO, TESPOK 

Technology Service Providers of Kenya (TESPOK) sits at the center of Kenya’s technology conversation, shaping how digital services grow, connect, and create value across the country and beyond.  

As a member-based organization representing technology service providers, the company has built a reputation for convening stakeholders, guiding policy discussions, and managing critical digital infrastructure that supports Kenya’s economy and regional connectivity. 

At its core, TESPOK serves as the voice of the private sector in the technology space. Fiona Asonga, CEO of TESPOK, says, “The reason TESPOK was set up was to bridge the gap between the private sector and government.”  

This role has placed the organization directly at the center of policy conversations, national strategy development, and regulatory processes. “We have been involved in developing government strategies, policy documents, laws, and regulations, and we are always part of the conversation,” Asonga says. 

By bringing industry expertise into these discussions, TESPOK helps shape regulations that reflect how digital businesses actually operate, while also helping the government understand the needs of the sector. Operating at this intersection, the company works alongside ministries and the Communications Authority, ensuring that digital frameworks support innovation while remaining workable for investors and service providers. 

One of TESPOK’s most visible responsibilities is the management of the Kenya Internet Exchange Point, which plays a vital role in keeping local internet traffic within the country. This infrastructure supports efficiency, lowers latency, and improves speed and overall performance, strengthening Kenya’s digital resilience while reducing reliance on costly international routing for domestic data exchanges. Regional collaboration is essential in this mission of digital sovereignty.  

“The concept of the internet is that there are no boundaries,” notes Asonga, adding that cross-border connectivity requires constant coordination between regulators, service providers, and policymakers. 

TESPOK’s regional engagement extends to bodies such as the East African Communications Organization and discussions around the African Continental Free Trade Area. Asonga says these platforms show the need for harmonization of policy frameworks that match the realities of digital business and services across the continent.  

“Technology is always ahead of policy,” she reflects. “Technology will do its thing, and policy has to catch up in a way that supports innovation.” Kenya’s experience positions it as a valuable contributor to regional digital policy harmonization and cooperation. 

A key focus for TESPOK is ensuring that public and private sector collaboration delivers practical outcomes. “Our main activity is to speak for the investor and find ways of opening policy and regulatory doors while still giving the government what it needs.”  

She says this balance has helped Kenya advance ICT strategies that encourage investment while aligning with national development goals and supporting the growth of a more integrated, competitive, and innovation-driven digital economy. 

Women’s empowerment and leadership in technology form another pillar of TESPOK’s work. Asonga says meaningful progress starts with confidence and solidarity.  

“Women need to learn to stand their ground and speak up for each other,” she says. She adds that leadership does not require a single style. “Everyone has their own different and unique way, and that is okay,” Asonga says. Through advocacy and visibility, TESPOK continues to support environments where women can lead, collaborate, and influence the sector. 

Digital inclusion is also central to the organization’s mission, particularly through its Autism awareness and support initiatives. According to the CEO, TESPOK chose Autism because of its relevance to the technology industry.  

“Our industry has benefited a lot from the contributions of individuals on the Autism spectrum,” she explains, adding that focus, attention to detail, and problem-solving are strengths that align naturally with roles such as coding and engineering. 

TESPOK supports Autism awareness through community engagement and an annual marathon that brings families and caregivers together.  

“We started with creating awareness because in our culture, autistic children are often misunderstood,” reflects Asonga. The initiative encourages inclusion, understanding, and opportunities for individuals to discover their strengths within supportive environments. 

Sustainability is embedded in TESPOK’s long-term strategy, as Asonga explains: “We are trying to accommodate corporate sustainability as one of the core areas within our strategy.” She explains that this includes reducing paper use, automating processes, and supporting communities through inclusive programs. These efforts reflect TESPOK’s view that digital growth should align with environmental responsibility and social impact. 

Across policy advocacy, infrastructure management, empowerment initiatives, and inclusion programs, TESPOK continues to play a defining role in Kenya’s digital ecosystem. The CEO emphasizses that the organization’s purpose remains clear.  

“We are here to make sure it is a win for investors and a win for government and the citizens of Kenya,” she says.  

Through collaboration and thoughtful leadership, TESPOK remains committed to strengthening Kenya’s position as a connected and inclusive digital economy.