NAIROBI, Kenya, July 21 – Kenya is seeking investment in artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure to reduce reliance on foreign technologies and strengthen its digital economy.
The government plans to expand AI infrastructure, including cloud computing, data centres, research facilities and local talent, to support innovation and economic growth.
The strategy was unveiled during the launch of the Africa Technology Leadership Conference (ATLC) 2026, where officials said Kenya should invest in developing its own AI capabilities.
Principal Secretary for the State Department for Science, Research and Innovation Shaukat Abdulrazak said Africa must invest more in research and innovation.
“Africa cannot remain only a consumer of technology. We must invest in research, protect our innovations and build technologies that create industries, businesses and jobs,” Abdulrazak said.
ATLC National Coordinator and INVIGENCE Chief Executive Kenneth Rotich said Kenya should build its own AI infrastructure instead of relying on technology developed overseas.
“If we want AI to transform our economy, we must build our own capabilities from cloud infrastructure and AI engineering to locally developed solutions. That is how we create long-term value for Kenya and Africa,” Rotich said.
He said plans are underway to establish AI innovation hubs that will link universities, startups, investors and technology companies to support research and commercialisation.
The Africa Technology Leadership Conference 2026, scheduled for October in Nairobi, is expected to bring together more than 3,500 policymakers, investors, researchers and technology leaders.
