The government of Kenya is aiming to regulate the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in order to balance the benefits of the technology with the need to address risks associated with its misuse.
This initiative is outlined in the Draft Kenya National AI Strategy for 2025-2030, which seeks to harness AI’s capabilities to stimulate the nation’s economic development.
Additionally, the strategy aspires to position Kenya as a leader in Africa in utilizing AI to fulfill national objectives.
The implementation of this vision will revolve around seven key themes: AI digital infrastructure, data management, AI Research and Development, talent cultivation, governance, investment, and ethical considerations.
“The strategy envisions Kenya as a leader in high-quality AI research and development, fostering innovative and ethical solutions that cater to the diverse needs of our local communities,” the statement indicated in part.
“It emphasizes the importance of utilizing local talent, datasets, and creativity to transform priority sectors and promote inclusive economic growth.”
A significant aspect of the strategic plan includes the establishment of a national framework to regulate the optimal use of AI technology. To facilitate this, the government intends to form a task force dedicated to addressing both opportunities and emerging challenges posed by AI.
This task force will develop protocols to protect sensitive data while ensuring broader access.
Another component of the strategy involves investing in AI infrastructure through the implementation of a national broadband initiative that will provide high-speed internet and 5G connectivity.
This infrastructure will be powered by renewable energy sources, including solar, wind, and geothermal, to minimize environmental impact.
Furthermore, the government plans to collaborate with global technology firms through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) to explore innovative ways to harness AI’s potential.
This collaboration will include incentivizing investors to fund the establishment of local data laboratories aimed at training the youth on the capabilities of AI.
One additional theme involves initiating a public awareness campaign focused on AI rights, as well as addressing disinformation and misinformation to mitigate its misuse.
Efforts will be made to educate stakeholders and civil servants on the ethical and fair application of this technology.
The proposed strategies will play a crucial role in developing a skilled and adaptable workforce to advance the nation in technological matters.
This draft strategy emerges as the government seeks to regulate the use of AI among Kenyan youth, who have turned to creating AI-generated images to voice their dissatisfaction.
Several political leaders have criticized this practice and have issued warnings regarding severe repercussions for those who create such images.
