- Kenya ranks first globally in Artificial Intelligence usage among internet users.
- 97.5% of users aged 16+ engage with AI tools regularly, beating countries like the UAE and Indonesia.
- Philip Thigo links the growth to rapid digital transformation.
- Experts warn that Africa still lacks enough computing infrastructure despite high adoption.
- Major tech event set for Nairobi aims to boost innovation and partnerships.
Kenya has emerged as a global leader in the use of Artificial Intelligence, according to the latest global digital trends report for 2026. The data shows that nearly all internet users in the country are now interacting with AI tools on a regular basis.
With a usage rate of 97.5 per cent among people aged 16 and above, Kenya has moved ahead of tech-driven nations like the United Arab Emirates and Indonesia. This strong uptake highlights how quickly digital tools are becoming part of everyday life, from communication to business operations.
The trend also reflects wider access to smartphones, mobile internet, and digital services, which continue to shape how Kenyans work and interact online.
Philip Thigo says the figures point to a country ready to take the next step in digital innovation. He noted that tools such as ChatGPT and other AI platforms are now widely used across different sectors.
According to him, the next priority is building local infrastructure that can support this rapid expansion. He emphasised the need for more data centres so that Kenya can store and manage its own digital information instead of relying heavily on foreign systems.
This push aligns with Kenya’s broader plan to position itself as a technology hub in Africa.
Despite the high level of usage, experts say Africa still faces a major challenge when it comes to AI capacity. The continent contributes only a small fraction of global computing power, which limits its ability to fully control and develop advanced technologies.
This gap means many African countries depend on external platforms and systems to run AI services. Analysts warn that without investment in infrastructure and strong policies, the region could remain a consumer rather than a creator of technology.
Still, Kenya’s early steps in developing a national AI strategy are seen as a move in the right direction.
Projections show that Artificial Intelligence could unlock trillions of dollars for Africa’s economy by the end of the decade. Industries such as agriculture, healthcare, education, and finance are already seeing early signs of change driven by automation and data analysis.
Philip Thigo dismissed fears that AI will simply replace jobs, arguing that new opportunities will emerge alongside the changes. He pointed out that innovation often creates new roles even as it reshapes existing ones.
This shift is expected to influence how businesses operate and how workers prepare for the future.
Kenya’s growing influence in the tech space will be on display during the upcoming AI Everything Kenya x GITEX Kenya. The event is scheduled to take place in Nairobi and is expected to attract global tech leaders, investors, and policymakers.
It will begin with a high-level summit focused on inclusive AI development before expanding into exhibitions and discussions across multiple sectors. Topics such as climate solutions, cybersecurity, and digital finance are set to feature prominently.
The gathering is seen as a key moment for Kenya to showcase its digital progress and build partnerships that will shape the region’s technological future.
As global attention shifts towards Africa’s digital potential, Kenya is steadily building a reputation as a frontrunner in innovation. The combination of high AI usage, supportive policy direction, and growing investment is placing the country at the centre of the continent’s tech conversation.
While challenges remain, especially around infrastructure and governance, the current momentum suggests a strong path forward. For many observers, Kenya is no longer just adopting technology; it is beginning to influence how it is used across the region.
