The government has reaffirmed commitment to shaping Kenya’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) future through ethical innovation, youth empowerment and strong policy frameworks.
Principal Secretary for Science, Research and Innovation, Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak, commended the Draft Kenya Artificial Intelligence and Other Emerging Technologies Policy, terming it a critical framework for guiding the responsible development and application of AI in the country.
The draft policy, spearheaded by the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, is currently undergoing public participation, with the deadline for submissions extended to August 11, 2026.
Speaking during the 9th Young Scientists Kenya National Science and Technology Exhibition at Moi Girls School, Nairobi, Prof. Shaukat said the policy will ensure AI is applied ethically to address societal challenges, enhance productivity and improve service delivery.
“I urge the younger generation to use digital skills responsibly, especially artificial intelligence, to create a positive impact in society,” he said.
He emphasized the importance of nurturing innovation among young people, describing them as key drivers of Kenya’s future economic growth and global competitiveness.
“I have great confidence in our youth. You are the ones who will shape this nation into a more prosperous and innovative country,” he added.
Director for Digital Skilling at the State Department for ICT and the Digital Economy, Elizabeth Birgen, said the government recognises the creativity and innovation demonstrated by young Kenyans in applying digital skills to solve real-world challenges.
She noted that many young people are leveraging Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) to develop practical solutions that address both local and global issues.
“This is exactly the kind of problem-solving mindset that will drive Kenya’s future economy,” Birgen said.
The exhibition brought together more than 300 students and teachers from across the country, showcasing 154 innovative science projects designed to tackle emerging challenges.
Held under the theme “Shaping Kenya’s AI Future Using STEM”, the event highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence as a key driver of socio-economic transformation.
Birgen described the theme as timely, noting that equipping young people with AI knowledge and digital skills will position Kenya as a regional leader in digital innovation.
“Around the world, artificial intelligence is transforming how we learn, work, deliver services and solve complex challenges. Kenya has a unique opportunity to lead in this space by investing in its youth,” she said.
She reaffirmed the State Department’s commitment to strengthening digital skills development, particularly in emerging technologies such as AI, to foster innovation and creativity among young people.
At the same time, the government continues to expand digital infrastructure, promote digital literacy and support high-tech innovation programmes aimed at empowering youth to develop solutions to real-world problems.
Officials noted that these efforts align with the broader vision of building an inclusive, knowledge-driven and globally competitive digital economy.
By Michael Omondi
