Overview

Thales is a French multinational with expertise in aerospace, defence, security, digital identity, and related technology. In Kenya, the company works across multiple sectors, offering solutions that range from digital payments to national identity systems and air traffic management.

Key Areas of Activity

1. Defence & Security
Thales provides advanced solutions to government agencies and defence bodies in Kenya. Recent collaborations have also involved Thales Alenia Space, particularly in earth observation and satellite technologies.

2. National Identity Systems
The company has been involved in providing secure identity and card systems to support Kenya’s government programs for national identification.

3. Payments & Digital Banking
Thales is a key player in Kenya’s digital financial ecosystem. In partnership with banks and payment networks, it has helped launch contactless (NFC) payment solutions, enabling transactions via smartphones and wearable devices.

4. Aerospace & Air Traffic Management
Thales supports Kenya’s aviation sector by supplying air traffic management systems, including radar, navigation, and related technologies. These systems help improve safety and efficiency in Kenyan airspace.

5. Local Presence
Thales operates in Kenya through regional offices and partnerships with local technology firms, supporting its role in providing electronic systems, cybersecurity, and other high-tech services.

6. Space Collaboration
Through Thales Alenia Space, Kenya has explored partnerships in satellite broadband, earth observation, and technical capacity building in the space sector.

Recent Developments

In 2023, Thales worked with major financial institutions in Kenya to introduce NFC-enabled contactless payments.

Delegations from Kenya’s Ministry of Defence have engaged with Thales Alenia Space to strengthen cooperation in space technology, broadband, and security.

Thales has previously supported Kenya with the rollout of millions of secure national identity cards.