NAIROBI, Kenya — Nairobi has committed to a long-term partnership with AI EVERYTHING KENYA x GITEX KENYA, with Governor Johnson Sakaja pledging full support for the city’s continued participation in the global technology and artificial intelligence network.
Speaking during the inaugural three-day event at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), Sakaja said Nairobi is ready to position itself as a permanent hub within the GITEX ecosystem, which is among the world’s largest technology and AI event networks.
He said the city government would fully support future editions of the expo, describing Nairobi as ready for deeper integration into global innovation platforms.
Nairobi eyes AI leadership role
Sakaja said Nairobi’s growing digital infrastructure and innovation ecosystem make it suitable for large-scale AI deployment and investment.
He highlighted ongoing digital transformation initiatives in the city, including intelligent traffic systems, AI-enabled air quality monitoring, and digital public service platforms.
The governor also pointed to the use of mobile-based systems in public services, including digital business permits and school meal programmes, as evidence of the city’s technological readiness.
Push for startup collaboration
Sakaja called on startups participating in the event to develop solutions that can be deployed directly within Nairobi’s urban systems.
He said the county government is open to investing in scalable innovations and connecting entrepreneurs to investors and markets.
The governor added that Nairobi’s familiarity with mobile money systems such as M-Pesa has helped accelerate public trust in digital solutions.
National government backing
The event also featured remarks from senior government officials, including ICT and Digital Economy Principal Secretary John Tanui, who emphasized Kenya’s growing digital infrastructure and global connectivity.
He said the country has made significant investments in submarine cables, cross-border fibre links, and digitised government services, which now number in the tens of thousands.
AI investment push
Ambassador Philip Thigo said Africa must position artificial intelligence as an investment-driven sector, noting the continent’s potential in data, talent, and green mineral resources.
He said Kenya is seeking to position itself as a regional leader in AI development and digital transformation.
Global participation
Organisers said the event has attracted more than 280 enterprises and startups, alongside thousands of delegates from 75 countries.
The exhibition brings together investors, policymakers, and technology leaders to explore opportunities in artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, and innovation ecosystems across Africa.
The event concludes with calls for Nairobi to strengthen its role as a long-term host city for global technology forums, reinforcing its ambition to become a leading AI hub on the continent.
