Kenya’s tech scene is buzzing with activity, from AI advancements to digital hubs and healthcare innovations.
Here’s a look at some of the key developments across counties:
JHub: Nurturing the Next Generation of AI Innovators
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming ingrained in Kenyan life.
Street vendors are using AI-generated art, while major companies like Safaricom are integrating AI into their operations, including chatbots like ‘Zuri.’
Learning institutions are also embracing AI, with Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) leading the charge through its digital innovation hub, JHub.
JHub, founded by Dr. Lawrence Nderu, Chairman of JKUAT’s Department of Computing, is empowering young innovators to develop AI-driven solutions.
With 32 ongoing projects across sectors like agriculture, health, and education (mostly initiated in April last year), JHub aims to complete at least 15 of these by the end of 2026.
Dr. Nderu emphasizes the importance of learning from failure.
JHub collaborates with institutions like Microsoft, Tech Innovators Network (THiNK), USIU, DKUT, AI Kenya, and Nexford University, welcoming innovators from diverse backgrounds. JHub’s first summit, held from February 10 to 14, brought together experts to discuss AI trends and skills.
North Horr MP Wario Adhe stressed the need for homegrown AI solutions to address Africa’s unique challenges.
The UNDP estimates AI could boost Africa’s economy by $1.2 trillion by 2030, a 5.6% increase in GDP.
Expanding Digital Access: New Hubs Across Kenya
The Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy (MICDE) is establishing digital hubs across Kenya.
A KSh 26 million digital hub is being developed at Ahero Multipurpose Development Training Institute in Nyando, Kisumu County, with construction expected to be completed within two and a half months.
This hub, part of a plan for 100 centers of excellence and 1,450 Jitume Digital Hubs nationwide, will offer digital skills training and online job opportunities.
Another KSh 23 million digital hub is being built in Kasipul constituency, Kosele DCC grounds, also expected to be completed in two and a half months.
These hubs are part of the government’s BETA plan to create a digital superhighway.
KEMSA’s Digital Transformation: Enhancing Transparency and Efficiency
The Kenya Medical Supply Authority (KEMSA) is implementing advanced digital systems, including the Logistics Management Information System (LMIS) and an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, to improve transparency and efficiency.
CEO Waqo Ejersa highlighted the importance of these advancements for accountability and supply chain management.
KEMSA’s board is also conducting a performance review to address challenges and improve its mandate.
Dr Ejersa noted that KEMSA’s order fill rate is currently at 56 percent, with back order filling bringing it to 65 percent, targeting 80-90 percent.
KEMSA is also working to address long-term county debts and is engaging consultants to improve operational efficiency and financial sustainability.
Chairman Samuel Tanui emphasized KEMSA’s commitment to the SHIF-SHA program, which currently has over 19.5 million enrollees.
The Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) is a healthcare financing program in Kenya that replaced the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) on October 1, 2024. The Social Health Authority (SHA) manages the SHIF.
AI and the Future of Media: A Roundtable Discussion
The Africa Media Festival and Baraza Media Lab hosted a roundtable debate on “Innovation: AI for Sustainable Media Futures.”
Participants discussed AI’s potential in media while emphasizing the need for ethical standards and regulatory compliance.
Studies show over 50 percent of global media organizations use AI tools, though adoption in Africa is slower.
Baraza Media Lab’s Executive Director, Maurice Otieno, urged African journalists to actively shape AI’s role.
Other participants, like Mukui Mbindyo, Karanja Jackson, and Dr. Keziah Wangui Githinji, highlighted the importance of digital literacy, AI training, and ethical guidelines.
The roundtable served as a prelude to the Africa Media Festival, scheduled for February 26th and 27th.
Tech for Health and Development: Turkana County Initiatives
The Turkana County government, Safaricom, and the International Rescue Committee (IRC) are collaborating to improve health systems and internet utilization in Turkana County.
They plan to incorporate smart water systems, improve data and revenue collection, and use Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping to identify areas with high malnutrition rates.
They also aim to enhance emergency referrals and communication through Closed User Group (CUG), SMS, and toll-free lines.
County Secretary Joseph Nyanga emphasized the importance of these interventions and suggested expanding projects to all sub-counties.
Safaricom expressed its willingness to support these initiatives, including SIM card registration for services.
The IRC highlighted the importance of technology for project tracking, while Safaricom emphasized its commitment to the partnership.
