Kenya takes lead as AI hub for sustainable development opens in Rome

Kenya took centre stage in Africa’s AI revolution as Kenyan delegates joined global leaders for the official launch of the AI Hub for Sustainable Development in Rome on Friday, June 20, 2025.

This milestone follows a year of high-level engagements led by President William Ruto and Ambassador Philip Thigo, placing Kenya at the forefront of shaping Africa’s digital future.

Held at the UNDP Italy headquarters, the event drew over 500 participants from more than 60 countries and announced 25 new partnerships linking African innovators, global tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft, and governments from 14 African nations under the Mattei Plan.

Senator Adolfo Urso, Italy’s Minister of Enterprise and Made in Italy, called for bold partnerships. “Outdated solutions can’t serve Africa’s AI market; bold collaborations must drive this future,” he said.

The AI Hub aims to fast-track Africa’s growth by strengthening ecosystems around data, compute, talent, and partnerships. Kenya’s Ambassador Philip Thigo was named a founding member of its Executive Steering Group — one of only two African representatives — reaffirming Kenya’s leadership in Africa’s digital transformation.

“This unshackles Africa from exclusion and opens new AI opportunities for all,” said Thigo, applauding the partnership model led by President Ruto and Prime Minister Meloni.

Five flagship programmes were unveiled, offering AI infrastructure, cloud credits, mentorship, and cross-border partnerships. Kenyan start-ups and youth will now access tools to develop AI solutions for local needs and global markets.

Tonee Ndungu, Kenyan innovator and session moderator, highlighted the importance of this move. “The Hub provides the costly infrastructure our innovators need to thrive,” he said.

The launch reaffirmed a united call for transformative, high-impact partnerships, placing Africa firmly in the driving seat of its AI future.