Kenya Shifts Focus to Turning Digital and AI Investments Into Economic Gains
The National AI Strategy focuses on digital infrastructure, data ecosystems and governance, as well as research, innovation and commercialisation.
Kenya is seeking to translate its investments in digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI) into measurable gains in productivity, employment, enterprise growth and public services.
Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications, Stephen Isaboke, said the focus should now move from policy development to practical implementation that delivers tangible benefits for Kenyans.
Isaboke made the remarks during a forum on Kenya’s Digital and AI Dividend: From Promise to Practical Action, organised in partnership with the World Bank Group. He welcomed the World Bank’s continued partnership and analytical work examining the impact of AI on jobs and opportunities to expand e-commerce in Kenya.
Kenya has established a policy framework for its digital economy through initiatives including the National Digital Master Plan 2022–2032, National E-Commerce Strategy 2023 and National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2025–2030.
The National AI Strategy focuses on digital infrastructure, data ecosystems and governance, as well as research, innovation and commercialisation.
Isaboke said the progress of Kenya’s digital transformation should be assessed based on its impact rather than the number of policies, strategies or digital platforms developed.
“The real measure of our digital transformation will not be the number of policies we have developed, platforms we have launched or strategies we have published. It will be whether these investments result in more productive businesses, better jobs, more efficient public services, greater inclusion and improved quality of life for our citizens.”
– Stephen Isaboke, Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications, Kenya
On AI and the future of work, Isaboke called for greater AI literacy and practical digital skills among citizens, public servants, teachers, MSMEs and workers. He also highlighted the need to develop advanced capabilities among researchers, developers and enterprises building and commercialising AI solutions.
He welcomed continued cooperation with the World Bank Group, noting that Kenya’s policy foundations, digital payments ecosystem, expanding connectivity, private sector innovation and young workforce provide a basis for capturing the benefits of digital technology and AI.
“The digital and AI dividend will not be realised simply because technology is available. It will be realised when a farmer uses digital tools and AI to increase productivity; when an MSME reaches new customers through e-commerce; when a teacher uses technology to improve learning; and when a young Kenyan acquires a new digital skill and accesses a new opportunity.”
– Stephen Isaboke, Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications, Kenya
