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Kenya plans to integrate artificial intelligence in all sectors of the economy in a five year AI strategy unveiled on Thursday.
Speaking during the launch, Information, Communication and Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo said the government will set up a team that will help in the uptake of the technology in key sectors of the economy at the cost of Ksh 152 billion.
“The Launch is a commitment to shaping Kenya’s digital future ensuring that we are not spectators but architects of our digital destiny,” said Kabogo.
He also allayed fears of job losses due to widespread deployment of the technology.
According to Kenya’s National Digital Master Plan (2022-2032), AI is referenced as a tool for driving innovation and entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of a national strategy on AI.
The Kenya National AI Strategy has been in development for more than two years, as Kenya eyes the $244 billion global AI market according to Statista.
“Kenya’s AI Strategy is crucial to keeping Kenya competitive, secure and future ready in the global digital economy. Notably, the Vision of this AI Strategy is built on three core Pillars; AI Digital Infrastructure, Data and AI Governance, AI Research, Innovation and Commercialization,” he added.
Kabogo further reaffirmed Kenya’s comparative advantage as an AI global leader.
He said the strategy will tap into tertiary institutions for AI talent mobilization, with the government planning to enact a legislation that will see tech graduates absorbed into ministries as AI officers.
Currently, proponents of the technology say striking a balance between supporting innovation and competition while protecting consumers in the face of the ethical use of AI, particularly regarding data privacy, misinformation, and bias is something legislation will have to consider.
The new strategic plan is set to provide for clear policy direction and increased efforts in raising citizen awareness to ensure AI delivers tangible benefits, increased public trust and responsible use of AI.
