This past week in France- Paris, over 100 countries were represented on an inclusive basis to share their commitment to the development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in their jurisdictions. These were questions that the AI summit was looking to answer:
1. How can AI be developed across the world with no county left behind? As it stands, only 7 out of 119 countries are participating in major AI initiatives.
2. The safety and ethicality of AI is still a big concern. The question about sustainability of AI and that the technologies developed should do no harm, was significant part of the agenda at the AI summit.

It was recognised that a multi-stakeholder approach around an inclusive and effective governance system for artificial intelligence was necessary. Though the European Union has already gone ahead with the EU AI Act, it was agreed that common frameworks should be developed around similar governance values such as safety, ethics, environmental impact, access, competition, cultural diversity, data protection, interoperability of standards, integrity of information is important, taking into account each country’s sovereignty.

It is with this in mind that we start to consider what Kenya’s current position is on AI. The Kenya national steering committee asked for comments in January 2025 on the Kenya National AI Strategy 2025–2030. The Ministry of Information, Communication and the Digital Economy developed this strategy which encompassed the following areas:
1. AI Digital Infrastructure- calling for an affordable AI infrastructure for accessible and affordable AI
2. Data- as effective AI depends on quality data, Kenya needs a robust data ecosystem thats supports AI innovation
3. AI research and innovation- Kenya aims to be the leader on AI on the African continent and for that, an environment that supports cutting edge solutions through local R&D, innovation and commercialisation
4. Talent- it is well known that the talent in Tech in our country is well respected and AI is an area that this talent already exists
5. Governance- there needs to be a roadmap for developing initial governance frameworks for responsible AI development and use.
6. Investment- it was noted that significant capital outlay and investment is needed to establish a formidable AI industry.
7. Ethics, Equity, and Inclusion- looking at the impact of AI on human rights.

Kenya was an active participant at this week’s AI summit, and was one of the signatories to the Statement on Inclusive and Sustainable AI for people and the Planet.

It is estimated that by 2030, AI shall contribute at least $2.9 Trillion to the African economy. Africa cannot be left behind, and off the back of this summit, Kigali shall in April 2025, host the Africa Global AI Summit.

We remain curious and vigilant as to how Africa shall steer this important conversation and shall keep you informed on these and other outcomes.