The Kenyan government has announced plans to expand its investment in artificial intelligence (AI) literacy initiatives. This move aims to equip citizens with the necessary skills to work alongside AI technology, which is increasingly disrupting various sectors of the economy. According to Broadcasting and Telecommunications Minister Stephen Isaboke, the goal is to make Kenya a builder, innovator, and creator of AI solutions, rather than just a consumer.
Minister Isaboke made these remarks during a workshop on digital and AI dividend in Nairobi. He emphasized the need for Kenya to prepare its people and institutions for an economy where AI plays a significant role in productivity and innovation. The minister highlighted that the country must capture the productivity gains created by AI while providing targeted support to workers and occupations that may experience greater disruption.
Data from the World Bank shows that approximately 87% of Kenyan workers are in occupations with relatively low direct exposure to AI capabilities. About 9% of workers are in highly exposed occupations where AI is likely to complement their work, while an estimated 4% of the workforce are in highly exposed occupations facing greater displacement risk. This data underscores the need for sustained investment in people to expand AI literacy.
The Kenyan government plans to integrate applied AI skills into various sectors, including agriculture, health, education, finance, engineering, law, and public administration. Minister Isaboke called for investment in AI literacy among citizens, public servants, teachers, MSMEs, and informal workers. He also emphasized the need to develop advanced capabilities among researchers, developers, data specialists, and enterprises that can build, adapt, test, and commercialize AI solutions.
Kenya has developed the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2025–2030, focusing on AI digital infrastructure, data ecosystems and governance, and AI research, innovation, and commercialization. The government aims to translate this policy foundation into measurable results, including more productive businesses, better jobs, more efficient public services, greater inclusion, and improved quality of life for citizens.
Minister Isaboke stressed that the true measure of Kenya's digital transformation will not be the number of policies developed or platforms launched, but the tangible benefits to citizens. The government is committed to ensuring that the benefits of AI are equitably distributed and that the workforce is prepared for the changes brought about by technological advancements.
By investing in AI literacy and developing a workforce capable of working alongside AI, Kenya aims to enjoy the dividends of AI while mitigating its negative impacts. The government's initiatives are expected to support workers and occupations that may experience disruption, ultimately contributing to a more productive and inclusive economy.
Key points
- Kenya to invest in AI literacy initiatives to prepare workforce for technological changes
- 87% of Kenyan workers are in occupations with relatively low direct exposure to AI capabilities
- Kenya develops National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2025–2030 to guide AI adoption and innovation
