Kenya explores AI advancements to help drive digital expansion. The Kenyan government has teamed up with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH to start a project aimed at creating a National Artificial Intelligence (AI) strategy.
Kenya Explores AI Advancements
The initiative called “FAIR Forward – Artificial Intelligence for All” is receiving support from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the European Union.
It aims to address the challenges and opportunities of advanced technology like AI in Kenya while recognizing its potential to drive the country’s digital transformation and achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This effort comes after the Kenya Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Society proposed regulations for AI and robotics, including potential penalties for unlicensed entities.
The proposed bill aims to establish the Kenya Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Society to regulate technologies like IoT, robotics, and AI, ensuring compliance and advising the government on responsible and ethical development.
A meeting with 70 key stakeholders from various sectors was held to prepare for the launch of the initiative. The meeting focused on identifying gaps and opportunities in Kenya’s AI ecosystem, discussing ongoing initiatives, defining priorities for the National AI Strategy, and gathering feedback on the strategy development process.
The Significance of the Project in Leveraging AI for Sustainable Development
Bodo Immink, GIZ Country Director, emphasized the significance of the project in leveraging AI for sustainable development and social inclusion in Kenya. Stakeholders also discussed challenges in Research and Development (R&D), data collection methods, and the involvement of key stakeholders in shaping the National AI Strategy.
Recent developments, like the University of Johannesburg making AI courses mandatory for all qualifications, highlight the growing importance of AI in education and research. Studies suggest that AI could significantly boost the global economy, with Africa potentially generating substantial economic growth through AI adoption.
Challenges to the Project
However, challenges remain, such as infrastructure limitations and educational gaps, particularly in countries like Nigeria. Despite these hurdles, efforts like the FAIR Forward initiative demonstrate a commitment to harnessing AI’s potential for positive impact in Africa.
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