Kenya, China explore cooperation on AI infrastructure and digital skills

Kenya and China are exploring cooperation in artificial intelligence, cloud computing and digital skills development, with a proposed $180 million grant expected to support the first phase of an AI cloud data project in Eldoret, western Kenya.

The project is expected to strengthen the country's AI and cloud computing infrastructure, while a proposed capacity-building program would equip Kenyan youth, professionals and institutions with the skills to develop, manage and deploy AI technologies.

The proposals were discussed when William Kabogo, cabinet secretary for information, communications and the digital economy, hosted Chinese Ambassador to Kenya Guo Haiyan for talks on expanding cooperation in the digital economy.

“We discussed ways to support Kenya's digital transformation while ensuring that partnerships and investments respect national priorities, data sovereignty requirements and existing ICT regulations,” he said in a statement after the Wednesday meeting.

He said the talks also covered plans to accelerate the digitization of government services to make them more accessible, efficient and responsive to citizens' needs.

Kabogo said Kenya is keen to explore opportunities to access up to $5 billion set aside through the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization to support international cooperation in the sector.

The discussions come as Kenya steps up efforts to build its domestic AI capabilities and position itself as a regional technology hub.

In March 2025, Kenya launched its National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2025–2030, which sets out plans to expand AI infrastructure, strengthen data governance and promote local research, innovation and commercialization.

The strategy also identifies skills development as a priority in preparing the workforce for an increasingly AI-driven economy.