The Ministry of Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT) has officially launched Kenya’s national Artificial Intelligence (AI) strategy.
This five-year strategic plan is designed to position the country (Kenya) as a leader in AI innovation across Africa.
Speaking at the launch of the Kenya National AI Strategy (2025-2030) at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, ICT Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo emphasized the importance of finding a balance.
On one hand, Kenya must take full advantage of AI’s incredible potential to boost the economy and solve national challenges.
On the other hand, it must also put strong measures in place to prevent AI from being misused for harmful purposes.
Kabogo explained that this strategy is a bold and forward-thinking roadmap that will help Kenya transform its digital sector.
At the same time, it aims to create real solutions to the country’s existing challenges. He stressed that the question is not whether Kenya will adopt AI—it is already happening.
Instead, the real issue is how to guide AI’s growth in a way that prepares Kenya for the future and strengthens its place in the global digital economy.
“We must embrace AI as a tool for economic growth, but we must do so responsibly. Ethical principles must guide us as we integrate AI into our systems,” he said.
AI and the Future of Jobs
The ICT Cabinet Secretary also highlighted how AI is changing the way people work. He acknowledged that while some jobs may become automated, AI will also create new job opportunities.
He believes Kenya must focus on equipping its workforce with the necessary skills to thrive in an AI-driven economy.
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“AI is not here to replace human workers. Instead, it is here to enhance their potential and productivity. Our goal must be to prepare our workforce so that AI becomes a catalyst for success rather than a threat,” he added.
To ensure AI plays a positive role in Kenya’s development, Kabogo proposed a new initiative for AI students.
He suggested that university students who have studied AI should be placed in public service jobs to help drive innovation in the sector.
Additionally, he promised to present an AI Bill to Parliament within four months to establish clear laws and regulations for the industry.
He explained that if the bill is approved, it will provide a structured framework for AI funding and regulation. This will ensure that Kenya develops AI responsibly while maximizing its benefits.
The Cost of AI Development
The AI strategy report outlines that Kenya will need at least Ksh.152 billion to fully implement the plan by 2030.
A significant portion of this budget—50%—will go toward building AI’s digital infrastructure. This investment will help create the necessary technology and resources to make AI widely accessible across the country.
Dagoretti South Member of Parliament John Kiarie expressed his support for the strategy. He stated that he is excited about the government’s commitment to fostering innovation at the community level.
He revealed that there are plans to establish 1,450 digital innovation hubs across Kenya. These hubs will provide young people with access to technology, training, and resources to develop AI-driven solutions.
“I see a great opportunity for the democratization of AI. These digital hubs will empower local innovators and create a new wave of technological advancements,” Kiarie stated.
Global Recognition and Support
During the launch event, several international partners praised Kenya for taking a proactive approach in shaping its AI future.
They highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts among all stakeholders, including the government, private sector, academic institutions, and international allies.
Alexander Fierley, the Deputy Ambassador of the German Embassy in Kenya, commended Kenya for ensuring that every stakeholder’s voice was heard in the AI strategy development process.
“The Kenyan government has involved all key players to make sure that AI is not controlled by just a select few. AI is too powerful to be left to a small group of people,” Fierley said.
He also emphasized the potential for strong AI partnerships between Kenya and Germany. He encouraged both countries to align their AI regulations to create a win-win situation that benefits both nations.
Other key figures who attended the event included:
- ICT Principal Secretary John Tanui
- Diaspora Affairs PS Roseline Njogu
- European Union Ambassador to Kenya Henriette Geiger
- Trans-Nzoia Senator Allan Chesang
The event therefore, marked a major step in Kenya’s journey toward becoming a leader in AI innovation in Africa.
With the right policies, investments, and collaborations, the country is well on its way to harnessing AI’s power for economic growth, job creation, and digital transformation.
