By, Neema Mujesia

On January 28, 2025, we convened a two-day Workshop on the Kenya AI Statement of Principles in Nairobi attended by at least 100 stakeholders drawn from different sectors. Hosted by the Ministry of ICT & Digital Economy in partnership with KICTANet and with support from the UK government, this event marked a significant milestone in Kenya’s journey toward building a secure, inclusive, and ethical AI-driven future.

The Kenya AI Statement of Principles will serve as a guiding framework to balance innovation with responsibility, safeguarding human rights, privacy, and social equity while driving sustainable development aligned with Vision 2030 and the Digital Economy Blueprint. The main objectives of the workshop were to: review the draft AI principles; gather diverse stakeholder insights from government, industry, academia, and civil society; and outline actionable steps to integrate AI principles into Kenya’s national strategy. The day also featured three breakout sessions focusing on: Fundamentals of AI Governance; AI Innovation and Opportunities in Kenya; and Addressing AI Safety and Risk Mitigation.

Highlights from today’s sessions

The workshop focused on advancing AI in Kenya, emphasizing inclusivity and trustworthiness as foundational principles to ensure that AI aligns with human rights and promotes social equity.

1. Mr. Ali Hussein, Chairman at KICTANet: Mr. Hussein stressed the importance of diverse perspectives in shaping AI governance. “AI is not just about technology; it’s about people, impact, and solving Africa’s unique challenges.” He called for bold and innovative thinking to create actionable solutions that leverage AI for social and economic transformation.
2. Mary N. Kerema, OGW, Secretary ICT, E-Government: Ms. Kerema highlighted the importance of establishing an AI governance framework that balances innovation with responsibility. She emphasized the transformative potential of AI in sectors such as healthcare and education while addressing concerns about data privacy and security. Kenya is positioning itself as a leader in AI innovation, with a strong focus on developing homegrown AI models that reflect the unique needs of Kenyans and Africans at large.
   “Today is about taking concrete steps toward actionable goals.”
3. Amb. Philip Thigo: AI has the potential to significantly accelerate economic growth, improve public service delivery , and tackle pressing social challenges. However, AI adoption also presents ethical, legal and social – economic complexities that must be managed carefully. Establishing clear AI principles is essential to ensuring safe, secure and inclusive deployment and trust among stakeholders.
4. Senator Crystal Asige: Senator Asige stated that “As AI evolves, some generations and communities feel left behind, much like when desktop computers and smartphones emerged, isolating certain groups. This divide is widening with the rapid pace of AI development.” She also discussed the interplay between Mental Health and AI, saying that “Social media, initially designed to connect people, has instead exacerbated feelings of loneliness and isolation, especially among Gen Z. As AI progresses, we must ensure it doesn’t further alienate individuals, particularly those grappling with mental health challenges.” Furthermore, she urged participants to address this crucial concern, ensuring AI strengthens, rather than weakens, human connections. 
5. Panel Discussion: The discussion focused on the ethical and practical implications of AI, particularly in assistive technologies for persons with disabilities. Key points included the need for inclusive AI development, ensuring data safety, and addressing cybersecurity resilience. Examples highlighted AI’s potential to enhance user experiences but also the risks of biased data and cyberattacks. The conversation emphasized the importance of collaboration, data cleanliness, and cultural sensitivity in AI development. Concerns about mental health impacts of AI and social media were also raised, underscoring the need for holistic approaches to AI integration that consider both efficiency and societal well-being.

The AI Statement of Principles (SoP): 

• Safe AI: Ensuring that AI systems function without harming individuals or communities, while integrating fairness, privacy, and social justice into AI governance.
• Sustainable AI: Utilizing AI to promote long-term economic and environmental sustainability with an emphasis on proportionality and a clear purpose.
• Secure AI: Safeguarding AI systems against adversarial threats and ensuring resilience by establishing well-defined goals and considerations of ethical standards.
• Trustworthy AI: Fostering public confidence and trust through transparency, accountability, and ethical standards that align with democratic values and human rights.
• Inclusive AI: Encouraging equal access and representation for all communities, ensuring that AI systems empower underrepresented groups and uphold democratic values.

The core principles include: Life-Centered and Human-Centered Design and Accountability; Equity and Fairness; Transparency and Public Trust; Safety, Security, and Resilience; International Collaboration and Ethical AI Development; Environmental Sustainability; Inclusive Participation and Cultural Relevance; and Robust Governance and Adaptive Regulation

This statement calls upon all stakeholders, government, private sector, civil society, and the international community—to embrace and implement these AI governance principles, which have embedded equity, accountability, and sustainability into every aspect of AI development. This will enable Kenya to harness technology to drive economic growth and build a prosperous future where every citizen thrives. 

A Path Toward Inclusive AI

“AI is not here to replace us—it is here to amplify our intelligence.” – Mary N. Kerema, OGW, Secretary ICT, E-Government. These words remind us that AI is a tool designed to empower innovation and inclusivity across all sectors.

KICTANet continues to shape Kenya’s AI strategy and the development of the AI Statement of Principles. The insights shared during this workshop will play a crucial role in developing a framework that is not only visionary but also practical and relevant for Kenya’s context and future.