The United Nations Office for Digital and Emerging Technologies (ODET) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have appointed Margaret Nyambura Ndung’u, former Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for ICT, as a Senior Researcher and Digital Policy Specialist on the newly formed Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Safeguards Strategic Advisory Board.
Nyambura shared the news via LinkedIn, expressing her appreciation and excitement for the opportunity to contribute to global digital governance. “Feeling honored to join brilliant minds on the DPI Safeguards Strategic Advisory Board… Together, we’ll guide policy, forge partnerships, and support countries in mainstreaming safeguards that leave no one behind,” she wrote.
The DPI Safeguards Strategic Advisory Board’s mandate is to provide independent guidance on implementing and evolving the UN’s digital infrastructure framework. Key responsibilities include advising on policy, addressing emerging risks, engaging stakeholders, and fostering public awareness around inclusive and responsible digital systems.
Nyambura emphasized her commitment to leveraging her broad networks to support awareness, education, and large-scale engagement on the framework’s significance and long-term impact.
A respected figure in the tech and policy space, Nyambura brings deep expertise in internet infrastructure, AI, cybersecurity, and data governance. She has notably contributed to the African Union’s digital transformation strategy across sectors like education, health, and agriculture.
Her accomplishments include spearheading the African Union Data Policy Framework, coordinating internet governance education across the continent, and developing e-skills training programs tailored to African institutions.
Before her brief Cabinet appointment in 2024, Nyambura held roles at Kenya’s ICT Authority and the GeJuSTA research initiative. Although nominated as Kenya’s High Commissioner to Ghana after her Cabinet exit, she declined the position, citing personal and family reasons.
Her new role at the UN underscores her continued influence in shaping Africa’s and the world’s digital future.
