Kenya launches National AI Skilling Alliance to build a future-ready workforce

Kenya has taken a major step toward preparing its workforce for the digital future with the launch of the Kenya Artificial Intelligence Skilling Alliance (KAISA) — a national, multi-stakeholder platform aimed at coordinating AI skills development, innovation, and policy collaboration across key sectors of the economy.

The initiative, launched jointly by the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA), Microsoft, and the Office of the Special Envoy on Technology, seeks to position Kenya as a continental leader in AI-driven transformation by equipping citizens with the knowledge and skills to thrive in the intelligent era.

Speaking at the launch, Ambassador Philip Thigo, MBS, Kenya’s Special Envoy on Technology for the President, emphasized that artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept but the driving force of today’s economic and social transformation.

“AI is today’s engine of transformation — from healthcare to agri-tech, education to creative industries — it is redefining what’s possible. But its promise will only be realized if we invest in people,” Ambassador Thigo said. “Kenya’s opportunity lies not merely in adopting technology, but in building the skills, confidence, and creativity to shape it.”

KAISA establishes a coordinated national framework that links skills to jobs, innovation to opportunity, and technology to inclusion. It brings together government, private sector, academia, civil society, and development partners to ensure that Kenya’s youth and citizens are equipped to participate meaningfully in an AI-powered future.

According to the organizers, the Alliance represents a collective commitment to build talent, strengthen institutions, and harness partnerships that turn AI’s potential into tangible outcomes — including job creation, entrepreneurship, and social good.

Ambassador Thigo extended appreciation to key partners driving the initiative, including Dr. Ehud Gachugu (KEPSA), Somanna Palacanda, Phyllis Migwi, and Winnie Karanu, as well as institutional partners such as the International Labour Organization (ILO), UNESCO, Pathways International US, and Moringa School.

By:  Kanto Kai Okanta