In a remarkable career milestone, Kenyan lawyer and technology policy expert Pressy Akinyi has been appointed Head of Government Affairs and Public Policy for East Africa at Apple, one of the world’s leading technology companies. In her new role, she will operate between Nairobi and Dubai, contributing to Apple’s engagement with governments and regulators across the region.

Akinyi joins Apple from the American Chamber of Commerce, Kenya, where she served as Policy Lead. In this role, she worked at the intersection of government, industry, and technology, focusing on critical areas such as cloud infrastructure regulation, data centre licensing, artificial intelligence governance, digital investment, and cross-border data flows.

Her professional journey reflects a strong foundation in law, international trade, and regulatory affairs. She previously practised commercial law, dispute resolution, and international arbitration at TripleOKLaw LLP. She holds an LL.B. from the University of Nairobi and has undertaken specialised training in Generative AI governance at the University of Michigan.

Beyond her legal and professional achievements, Akinyi has contributed to regional and continental policy conversations. She served as the East African Regional Representative for the Afronomicslaw Academic Forum and as a member of the Independent Continental Youth Advisory Board on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat. She has also published research on arbitration and regional economic integration, demonstrating her commitment to advancing legal scholarship and Africa’s development.

Her appointment comes at a time when governments across East Africa are strengthening policies around artificial intelligence, data protection, digital infrastructure, and emerging technologies. With her experience in legal practice, trade, and technology policy, Akinyi is well positioned to contribute to Apple’s government relations and public policy engagement across the region.

Celebrating this new chapter, Akinyi expressed gratitude to the people who have supported her professional journey and excitement about contributing to her new team.

Her appointment is a testament to the value of expertise, dedication, and continuous professional growth. Pressy Akinyi’s journey serves as an inspiration to young African professionals, particularly women pursuing careers in law, technology, public policy, and international affairs. Her achievement highlights the growing importance of African expertise in shaping conversations and decisions that influence the continent’s digital future.