By Neema Mujesia,

Kenya has taken a bold step into the future with the launch of its inaugural Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy 2025-2030. Unveiled by the Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy, the strategy aims to position Kenya as Africa’s leading AI hub, fostering innovation, sustainable development, economic growth, and social inclusion.

A Vision for AI Excellence

This strategy serves as a framework to harness the transformative power of AI while ensuring ethical deployment and inclusivity across all sectors of society. Eng. John Tanui, MBS, Principal Secretary in the Ministry, described it as a significant milestone, emphasizing the immense opportunities AI presents for Kenya’s digital future.

Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo Gitau reinforced Kenya’s AI potential, recalling a university visit where students’ innovations impressed him. “You have to be very prepared when you go to class because by the time you introduce the subject, they’ve done deep research ahead of you,” he noted. He also shared how a café encounter led him to test AI’s strategic insights, stressing the importance of embracing AI innovation while ensuring a well-structured and inclusive approach.

AI for Everyone: A Multi-Stakeholder Approach

Hon. John Kiarie, MP, underscored the need for collaborative AI development, both within Kenya and across the region. He highlighted efforts to democratize AI by making it accessible to all citizens, with 1,450 digital innovation hubs being set up—one in each ward—allowing Kenyans to contribute data and participate in AI development from anywhere in the country. This approach ensures AI systems support diverse languages and communities, fostering digital inclusivity.

However, Kiarie also raised concerns about AI’s potential risks, particularly misinformation, disinformation, and deepfake technologies. “As we value AI, we must also be concerned about human stupidity,” he warned, emphasizing the need for ethical AI governance to mitigate these threats.

Public-Private Partnerships for AI Growth

The presence of KICTANet at the event highlighted the importance of collaboration between public and private stakeholders in shaping Kenya’s AI landscape. The launch served as a platform for discussions on AI-driven innovation, policy frameworks, and strategic partnerships to ensure the responsible and impactful deployment of AI technologies.

With government support, private sector involvement, and multi-stakeholder engagement, Kenya is set to lead Africa in AI research, development, and deployment. This strategy marks the beginning of an exciting journey—one that will define Kenya’s digital future while ensuring AI is harnessed ethically, inclusively, and for the benefit of all.