Transforming Kenya: The Launch of the AI Strategy for 2025-2030

March 29, 2025

(3 Minutes Read)

Kenya’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy for 2025-2030, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s digital transformation. This strategy aims to establish Kenya as a leader in AI innovation, research, and commercialization, promoting responsible AI use to stimulate economic growth, generate jobs, and improve service delivery.

At the launch of the event, Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy (MICDE), William Kabogo highlighted Kenya’s determination to shape its digital future as an innovator rather than just a consumer. He stated, “AI is not optional; it is essential. With a defined strategy, Kenya will leverage AI’s potential while upholding ethical standards, security, and inclusivity.” He further asserted that Kenya intends to actively influence its digital landscape and foster innovation.

The strategy is built on three fundamental pillars: AI digital infrastructure, data and AI governance, and AI research and commercialisation. Kabogo noted the government’s commitment to investing in strong digital infrastructure, AI education, and collaborations to make Kenya Africa’s top destination for AI-driven enterprises. “Our objective is to cultivate an ecosystem that encourages innovation, attracts investment, and positions Kenya as a global competitor in AI development,” he emphasised.

This initiative aligns with the National Digital Master Plan 2022-2032, Vision 2030, and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). The CS urged stakeholders, including academic institutions, the private sector, and development partners, to support AI adoption that boosts productivity, creates jobs, and drives sustainable growth. The strategy aims to harness AI’s potential responsibly, ensuring the technology serves all citizens while adhering to ethical standards and inclusivity.

Principal Secretary for ICT and Digital Economy, Engineer John Tanui, noted that Kenya has established itself as an innovation hub by creating several digital innovation centers, reinforcing its continental leadership in innovation and AI. He underscored the government’s approval of a national cloud policy to enhance access to powerful digital tools, including AI. “We are on the right path, and this strategy represents a significant advancement for our country,” he stated, thanking international partners like the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for their support.

European Union Ambassador to Kenya, Henriette Geiger, praised Kenya’s AI approach for its focus on human-centered growth and ethical development. She highlighted the EU’s support via its Digital Transformation Centre, reaffirming its commitment to promoting responsible AI adoption. “AI should serve as a foundation for societal transformation, promoting fairness and equity,” she said.

This launch demonstrates Kenya’s readiness to lead in the global AI economy, ensuring that the technology enhances productivity, creates opportunities, and promotes sustainable growth.