The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has called on the Kenyan government to increase investment in technological and infrastructural development to facilitate the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the country.
The recommendation was presented by Peter Ngure, Kenya’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to UNESCO, during the conclusion of the East African Nations AI course at a UNESCO-supported forum. Ngure emphasized the need for Kenya to establish more technology hubs and incubation centers to boost AI integration.
Ngure stated: “Expand investment towards infrastructure development to address cross-cutting issues for AI. Establish ICT innovation and technology hubs and incubation centers,”
He also highlighted the importance of strengthening the capacity of the government, civil society, and the private sector to understand the social and technological implications of AI, urging a commitment to developing knowledge aligned with African ethical values.
“Strengthen the capacity of government, civil society, and the private sector to understand and use AI technologies and applications. Consider both the opportunities and challenges that AI presents for youth,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu, who attended the forum, reiterated the importance of Kenya making significant strides in AI adoption to avoid falling behind in regional technological advancement. He described the forum as a “wake-up call.”
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Ngure expressed optimism that adopting these recommendations would demonstrate Kenya and the East Africa Region’s commitment to fostering innovation, protecting citizens’ rights, and creating an enabling environment for AI technologies to thrive.
