Kenya launches National AI strategy with Ksh.152B implementation budget

Speaking during the launch of the Kenya National AI Strategy (2025-2030) at KICC, Nairobi, ICT Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo underscored the need to strike a balance between leveraging AI's potential while simultaneously mitigating the risks from malicious use. 

He said the strategy reflects the ambitious path Kenya will take in transforming the digital sector and providing solutions to the country's challenges. 

"The question isn't whether we shall adopt AI but how we will shape it to keep Kenya's future-ready in the global digital economy. We must harness AI's potential to drive economic growth. This process must, however, be guided by ethical principles," he said. 

"AI is changing the nature of work. While some work will be automated, it will also create new job spaces."

Kabogo also proposed the idea of taking university students who have studied AI into the public service space. He promised to forward an AI Bill to Parliament within four months to regulate the sector. 

The CS noted that if approved, the Bill would provide a framework for funding and regulation. 

The report indicates that the government requires at least Ksh.152 billion to implement the AI strategy report by 2030, with AI's digital infrastructure requiring 50 per cent of the budget.  

"AI is not here to replace us but to enhance our potential. Our focus must be equipping our workforce with the right skills so that AI can be a catalyst in their operations," he added. 

Dagoretti South MP John Kiarie echoed Kabogo's sentiments and expressed confidence that the government would create digital hubs that would foster innovation in the community. 

"I'm looking forward to a great partnership. I see another opportunity for the democratization of AI strategy. We aim to develop 1,450 digital innovation hubs nationwide," the lawmaker stated. 

Kabogo was joined by ICT Principal Secretary John Tanui, Diaspora Affairs PS Roseline Njogu, European Union ambasaador to Kenya Henriette Geiger, Deputy Ambassador of the German Embassy in Kenya Alexander Fierley, Trans-Nzoia Senator Allan Chesang among others. 

During the launch, international partners lauded Kenya for taking the initiative in developing the report. They called on collective action from all stakeholders to turn the strategy into a reality. 

"The government brought together all stakeholders to ensure no voice was left out. Why? Because AI is too powerful to be left to a chosen few," Fierley stated. 

"If we (Kenya and Germany) put our interests in terms of AI regulations, this can be a win-win situation for both countries. I call on everyone to own this vision."