The Kenya Association of Records Managers and Archivists (KARMA) has cautioned that Kenya's adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in government and business operations may produce unreliable outcomes if institutions do not address weaknesses in records management. KARMA Secretary General Collins Mutimba emphasized that incomplete, inaccurate, and poorly secured records could compromise AI-generated information, undermining decision-making, accountability, and public service delivery.
Mutimba stressed that institutions must prioritize data quality, digitization, and information governance before deploying AI systems that depend on reliable information. He noted that "artificial intelligence is only as reliable as the information on which it operates." If records are incomplete, inaccurate, poorly organized, or insecure, AI systems may produce unreliable results. This warning comes ahead of KARMA's 10th Annual Records Management Conference scheduled for November 2-6, 2026, in Mombasa.
The conference, whose official opening is scheduled for November 3, will bring together professionals from government, the private sector, academia, and international institutions to discuss emerging technologies and their implications for information management. This year's theme, "AI-Ready Records for Smart Content-Based Governance," reflects growing concerns over the quality and security of information used by organizations deploying automated systems.
KARMA emphasizes that proper records management is critical to economic performance because government decisions, business transactions, and public services depend on accurate and accessible information. The association, established in 2010, brings together records managers, archivists, and information professionals to promote professional standards and improve information management practices.
Over the past decade, KARMA has developed a professional code of ethics, a competency framework, and records digitization guidelines to support capacity building and digital transformation. However, Mutimba notes that Kenya continues to face challenges, including fragmented information systems, inadequate funding, skills gaps, and continued reliance on paper-based records across public and private institutions.
Despite progress in e-government services and electronic records management, Kenya still trails countries with more mature digital records infrastructure and integrated information governance systems. KARMA is calling for increased investment, stronger policy frameworks, and better recognition of records management professionals to support the transition. The association also wants closer collaboration with the government on professional training, digitization, and the responsible adoption of AI.
The warning from KARMA comes at a time when Kenya is increasingly turning to technology to drive economic growth and improve public services. The adoption of AI has the potential to transform various sectors, but it requires a solid foundation in records management to ensure that the information used is accurate, reliable, and secure. By addressing these challenges, Kenya can unlock the full potential of AI and achieve its development goals.
Key points
- KARMA warns that poor records management could undermine Kenya's AI adoption.
- Institutions must prioritize data quality, digitization, and information governance before deploying AI systems.
- KARMA calls for increased investment, stronger policy frameworks, and better recognition of records management professionals.
