Why Kenya’s Decision Not to Sign Africa’s AI Declaration Is Risky

Africa’s AI Ambition Takes Center Stage

The recent Global AI Summit in Kigali marked a pivotal moment for Africa’s technological future. With $2.9 trillion (Ksh 377 trillion) in projected economic value at stake, over 30 African nations signed the Africa Declaration on Artificial Intelligence, committing to ethical and inclusive AI development. Notably absent from this historic agreement was Kenya, traditionally seen as East Africa’s tech leader.

A Strategic Pause or Missed Opportunity?

Kenya’s absence raises critical questions about its position in Africa’s AI landscape. As home to Konza Technopolis and numerous AI-powered startups, Kenya’s non-participation appears contradictory. Sources suggest this reflects a deliberate pause rather than rejection, with the country’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2025–2030) still under finalization.

The Geopolitical Implications

Kenya’s position becomes more complex when considering its growing role as a tech hub for global giants like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon. The Africa Declaration’s emphasis on data sovereignty and African-first priorities may have created internal debates about balancing continental commitments with international partnerships.

The Risks of Delay

Kenya’s hesitation carries significant consequences:

• Loss of Influence: Other nations are shaping Africa’s AI governance framework without Kenyan input
• Missed Collaborations: Potential exclusion from shared infrastructure and joint investment opportunities
• Domestic Uncertainty: Growing public interest in AI governance remains unmet

Kenya’s AI Potential Remains Strong

Despite this setback, Kenya maintains strong AI credentials:

• Host to Africa’s only Google AI Research Centre
• Thriving AI applications in agriculture (Apollo Agriculture) and healthcare (Ilara Health)
• Grassroots tech education initiatives like Coding with Kids in Kibera

The Path Forward

Kenya still has an opportunity to join the Declaration, but time is critical. The government must:

• Finalize and implement the National AI Strategy promptly
• Enhance stakeholder engagement beyond government circles
• Improve public communication about AI policy direction

As Togo’s President Faure Gnassingbé warned during the summit: “We must not build an AI Africa for the few—but one that works for the many.” Kenya has both the capability and responsibility to help shape this future.

The Writer is a Machine Learning Researcher and Technology Policy Analyst