20/05/2026
ICT Authority CEO Jessy Maruti today accompanied the Principal Secretary for ICT and Digital Economy, Eng. John Kipchumba Tanui, to the AI Everything Kenya X GITEX Kenya Conference, where the PS delivered a keynote address on Kenya’s digital transformation agenda and Africa’s growing role in the global Artificial Intelligence ecosystem.
The conference also highlighted the importance of creating an enabling policy and regulatory environment that supports responsible AI innovation, digital inclusion and emerging technologies.
Mr Maruti participated in a high-level panel discussion where he engaged participants on Africa’s preparedness for the AI economy and the importance of investing in digital talent, AI skills and digital infrastructure.
The CEO noted that AI is now as strategic as electricity was in the 1900s and broadband was in the 2000s, emphasizing that countries investing early in AI talent and infrastructure will shape the future global economy.
He highlighted Kenya’s progress in building an AI-ready future, citing the deployment of over 30,000 kilometers of fibre optic infrastructure, establishment of more than 2,100 public Wi-Fi hotspots, rollout of 1,450 Digital Hubs and the training of over 1.2 million Kenyans in digital skills over the last three years, and the digital curriculum among others.
The CEO further emphasized the need for Africa to develop home-grown AI solutions tailored to African realities, languages and socio-economic needs while empowering young people with future-ready skills in AI, cybersecurity, cloud computing, data science and software engineering.
The event was also graced by Nairobi Governor H.E. Sakaja Johnson who also addressed the forum. Others in attendance are Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of GITEX Global, Ambassador Philip Thigo,Kenya’s Special Envoy on Technology, ICT Authority Board member Mr Savio Wambugu, alongside policymakers, investors, innovators and global technology leaders, underscoring Kenya’s growing position as a regional digital and innovation hub.
Mr Maruti was accompanied by Deputy Director Public Communications at the ICT Authority Mr Galgallo Fayo