Science, Research and Innovation Principal Secretary Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak has hailed the Draft Kenya Artificial Intelligence and Other Emerging Technologies Policy as a key framework for guiding the ethical development and use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Kenya.
The draft policy, spearheaded by the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, is currently undergoing public participation, with the deadline for submitting public comments extended to August 11, 2026.
Speaking during the 9th Young Scientists Kenya National Science and Technology Exhibition at Moi Girls School Nairobi, Prof. Shaukat said the policy would help ensure AI is applied responsibly to solve societal challenges, improve productivity and ease workloads.
He encouraged young innovators to embrace digital technologies responsibly and ethically, noting that the country’s AI Policy will provide the necessary framework for the safe and responsible development and use of Artificial Intelligence.
“I urge the younger generation to use digital skills responsibly, especially Artificial Intelligence, to create a positive impact in society,” he said.
The Principal Secretary also underscored the importance of nurturing young people’s creativity and innovation, describing them as central to Kenya’s future economic growth and global competitiveness.
“I have a lot of confidence in our younger generation. You are the ones who will shape this nation into a better and more prosperous country,” he added.
Representing the Principal Secretary for ICT and the Digital Economy, Eng. John Tanui, Director for Digital Skilling Elizabeth Birgen said the State Department recognizes the creativity, determination and innovation demonstrated by young people as they leverage digital skills to address societal challenges.
She said young Kenyans are identifying real-world challenges and applying Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) to develop practical and impactful solutions.
“This is exactly the kind of problem-solving mindset that will drive Kenya’s future economy,” she said.
Birgen described this year’s exhibition theme, “Shaping Kenya’s AI Future Using STEM,” as timely, saying equipping young people with AI knowledge and digital skills would strengthen Kenya’s position in digital innovation.
“Around the world, Artificial Intelligence is transforming how we learn, work, deliver services, and solve complex challenges. Kenya has an opportunity to position itself as a leader in this digital transformation, and that journey begins by investing in our young people,” she said.
She reaffirmed the State Department’s commitment to equipping young innovators with digital skills that foster innovation, creativity and problem-solving, particularly in emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence.
The exhibition brought together more than 300 students and their teachers from across the country, showcasing 154 innovative science projects designed to address local and global challenges through STEM.
