Kenyans have been challenged to embrace technology for sustainable growth even as Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to take its position in the market as one of the most powerful disruptive inventions.

Phyllis Migwi (pictured), the Country Manager for Microsoft Kenya emphasised the importance of using AI to foster sustainable growth, saying that the technology is a vital strategy for securing Kenya’s position in the global digital economy.

Speaking during Africa’s AI conference in Nairobi, Migwi lauded the adoption of the technology in Kenya, describing it as a powerful tool with potential to empower individuals and businesses in Kenya and beyond.

“Kenya’s tech sector has a great story to tell when it comes to the adoption of advanced digital tools like AI and machine learning. The AI Tour is Microsoft’s way of highlighting these successes to demonstrate AI’s impact and how organisations can deploy this technology within their own operations,” she said.

The conference attracted developers, innovators, and business leaders from both the public and private sectors alongside Microsoft executives.

Estimates indicate that AI offers significant opportunities for Africa, with analysts forecasting that the technology could boost the continent’s economy by 50 per cent of its current gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030 if Africa manages to capture just 10 percent of the global AI market.

Additionally, a recent study by the IDC – a market intelligence firm, revealed an impressive return of $3.50 for every $1 invested in AI, underscoring the financial benefits of embracing this technology.

The AI forum highlighted that for Kenya to benefit from the ongoing global transformation, businesses and individuals must be empowered to leverage the game-changing potential of AI.

Last year, Microsoft announced a new skilling initiative in Kenya, a ground-breaking programme aimed at training one million people in AI and cybersecurity.

The initiative is part of Microsoft’s commitment to democratise AI and empower individuals with the skills needed to thrive in the digital economy, aligned with Kenya’s Vision 2030 and Digital Masterplan.

“As AI continues to revolutionise industries, it is imperative that Kenya equips its workforce with the necessary skills to thrive in this new era,” said Migwi. “More than 4 million young people across Africa have been upskilled by Microsoft over the last five years through various skilling and employability programmes,” she added.

As a way of addressing essential infrastructure requirements, the firm has been driving increased access to connectivity through its Airband Initiative, which includes Project Mawingu.

By the end of 2024, Mawingu’s network was operational in 31 counties in Kenya, covering a population of 9.7 million.