NAIROBI, Kenya — The Kenyan government is preparing to open a regional training centre dedicated to artificial intelligence and digital skills at the Kenya School of Government (KSG), marking a new step in efforts to modernize the public sector.
The move comes at a time when governments across Africa are grappling with how to adapt to fast-moving digital technologies while ensuring that civil servants are not left behind.
On Friday, the Principal Secretary for ICT and the Digital Economy, Eng. John Tanui, met with his counterpart in Public Service and Human Capital Development, Dr. Jane Imbunya, to finalise preparations for the centre’s launch.
Backed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the new centre is intended to become a regional hub for AI and digital skills. Its goal is to equip public officials with the knowledge needed to handle a fast-evolving tech landscape.
In a joint statement, the two PSs said the facility would “strengthen the government’s ability to deliver citizen-centric services in the digital era.”
They also discussed how the centre could support Kenya’s ambitions in digital diplomacy by encouraging cooperation on emerging technologies across borders.
“We are looking at how this centre can position Kenya not just as a regional leader in innovation, but also as a convener of meaningful collaboration in technology,” Dr. Imbunya said during the meeting.
The centre’s rollout is seen as part of a wider strategy. Just last month, the Ministry of ICT launched the Kenya National AI Strategy (2025–2030) a five-year plan aimed at placing the country at the forefront of AI development on the continent.
With pressure mounting on governments to respond more efficiently to citizens’ needs, officials say the centre could help bridge the skills gap in the public service. It’s also expected to serve as a platform for testing practical digital tools that improve access to health, education, and other basic services.
“This initiative is not just about training,” Eng. Tanui said. “It’s about making sure we are building institutions that can keep pace with the digital demands of our citizens.”
While Kenya has made strides in the tech space especially in mobile payments and e-government platforms challenges remain. Connectivity gaps, slow bureaucracy, and uneven digital literacy across ministries have often undermined efforts to deliver services more efficiently.
Officials say the AI skilling centre could offer a hands-on solution, allowing civil servants to learn directly how to use new technologies to solve old problems.
It’s still early days. The exact timeline for the centre’s full activation hasn’t been confirmed. But both Tanui and Imbunya expressed urgency, calling for faster implementation so that the centre begins delivering real results.
“We cannot afford to wait,” Dr. Imbunya said. “We need to make this count for our people.”
