Kenya takes centre stage in shaping Africa’s AI future at UN General Assembly

At the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80), Kenya highlighted its growing role in artificial intelligence (AI) governance and capacity building.

The country, which previously served on the UN High-Level Advisory Body on AI, now leads the G77 plus China negotiations on AI and Data Governance—an influential bloc representing developing nations in global technology discussions.

Kenya’s position builds on its history in digital innovation, including the rollout of mobile money through M-Pesa and investments in digital infrastructure. These foundations have shaped its push to secure Africa’s participation in developing frameworks for AI ethics, governance, and capacity development.

Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo told the Assembly:

“AI can be a powerful force for peace, from conflict prevention and cyber defence to humanitarian response, but we must remain vigilant against its misuse in cyberattacks, disinformation, autonomous weapons, and mass surveillance.”

Kabogo also backed the UN Secretary-General’s call for Voluntary Innovative Financing, saying it was necessary to support AI capacity building in Africa and reduce the digital divide. “Multilateralism must not only adapt to the future, it must shape it, inclusively and justly,” he added.

Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Dr. Korir Sing’oei chaired the launch of the UN Dialogue Mechanism on AI governance, describing Kenya’s contribution as “visible and strategic.” He credited the Ministry of ICT and Kenya’s Tech Envoy, Ambassador Philip Thigo, with steering much of the work.

Kenya has also proposed to host the Africa Regional Centre of Excellence, intended to support infrastructure development, skills training, and partnerships for AI innovation. In addition, plans are underway for the country to collaborate with the UN Secretary-General and President William Ruto in convening an expert group and international conference on financing models for AI capacity building.

Ambassador Thigo said: “The AI revolution cannot be managed by a select few but must be co-created by all, for the many. Anchored in equity, resilience, and dignity, Kenya’s initiatives signal a transformative chapter for Africa and the Global South in shaping the future of technology governance.”

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