Kenya Commits to Ethical Artificial Intelligence Use, Seeks Global Collaboration

SEOUL, South Korea — Kenya has declared its commitment to the responsible and ethical implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies, as voiced by the Information, Communications, and Digital Economy Permanent Secretary, Eng. John Tanui, at the Ministerial Conference on Artificial Intelligence/Digital Technologies and Democracy in Seoul. Tanui represented Cabinet Secretary Mr. Eliud Owalo at the event, emphasizing Kenya’s readiness to partner internationally in developing effective AI frameworks.

According to Kenya News Agency, AI and automation have significantly enhanced service delivery within Kenya, notably in financial inclusion and agriculture, contributing to the country’s socio-economic advancement. However, he also addressed the dual-edged nature of AI, pointing out the potential risks such as power concentration, privacy erosion, rising inequalities, and the spread of misinformation.

Tanui stressed the necessity for transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in AI development and deployment, calling for stringent regulations and oversight to protect democratic values. He highlighted the opportunities and challenges brought by digital technologies, underlining the need for global cooperation to navigate the complexities of the digital age.

The Kenyan government is actively promoting digital literacy and connectivity, aiming to prepare its citizens for the digital economy through extensive training programs, construction of a digital superhighway, and establishment of Digital Hubs across the country. These efforts are complemented by the digitization of government services, making over 15,000 services accessible online.

Additionally, Tanui expressed gratitude towards South Korea for its support in establishing the Kenya Advance Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) at Konza Technopolis, poised to contribute significantly to the region’s tech-driven economic growth.

The conference saw participation from global leaders, including U.S. Secretary of State Mr. Antony J. Blinken, who advocated for a collective approach to ensure AI’s beneficial application while safeguarding against its risks. Blinken highlighted AI’s potential to address global challenges and advance sustainable development goals.