Kenya is advancing its national digital transformation agenda through a strengthened collaboration between the government, Microsoft, and key ICT stakeholders aimed at expanding access to artificial intelligence and digital skills training across the country. The initiative was discussed during a strategic engagement held on June 17, 2026, bringing together public and private sector leaders focused on building a future-ready digital workforce.
A key outcome of the discussions was the reinforcement of the partnership between Microsoft and the ICT Authority, with a focus on scaling AI and digital literacy programmes through more than 200 Digital Hubs and Jitume Centres spread across all 47 counties. This expanded network is designed to bring essential digital training closer to communities, ensuring broader inclusion in Kenya’s rapidly evolving digital economy.
The initiative is aligned with Kenya’s national development priorities, including the Digital Superhighway Agenda, Vision 2030, and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). It supports the country’s ambitious goal of equipping 20 million citizens with digital skills by 2032, positioning Kenya as a regional leader in workforce development for emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.
Beyond training, the programme is expected to unlock new pathways for employment, innovation, entrepreneurship, and inclusive economic growth. By integrating AI skills into national learning and community development structures, the initiative aims to prepare citizens for opportunities in digital services, technology-driven industries, and the global knowledge economy.
The broader ecosystem also includes the AI Champions Recognition Programme, a national initiative designed to identify and celebrate individuals applying artificial intelligence to solve real-world challenges. Targeting students, educators, professionals, public servants, and innovators, the programme seeks to strengthen Kenya’s AI ecosystem by connecting talent with opportunity and encouraging practical AI adoption across sectors.
