NAIROBI, Kenya – Kenya and the United States have stepped up discussions on artificial intelligence, digital regulation and technology investment, with the government targeting the training of 30,000 young Kenyans in cloud computing, cybersecurity and AI.
Principal Secretary for ICT and the Digital Economy John Tanui said the discussions took place on Friday, November 13, 2026, when he hosted a visiting US delegation for talks on strengthening bilateral economic and digital cooperation.
The American delegation included Economic Counsellor Daniela Ballard, Commercial Counsellor Ryan Hollowell, Deputy Economic Counsellor Andrea Aquilla and Senior Commercial Specialist Mary Masyuko.
In an update shared on Sunday, November 15, Tanui said both sides discussed how Kenya could develop digital regulations that protect users while maintaining an environment that encourages local innovation, investment and job creation.
The engagement covered Kenya’s artificial intelligence policy, practical applications of AI in government, private-sector partnerships and legislation governing trade in strategic goods and technologies.
Kenya identifies government uses for artificial intelligence
Tanui said Kenya was developing its AI policy through consultation and validation, with the government seeking to establish a framework that supports innovation while addressing the risks associated with emerging technologies.
The US delegation encouraged Kenya to consider the non-binding AI Opportunity Statement, an international initiative focused on expanding AI innovation, economic growth and cross-border investment.
The two sides also discussed possible government applications of artificial intelligence, including legislative research, strategic mapping and citizen information services.
Tanui said the government would identify between three and five priority applications before developing further programmes with local innovators.
Kenya’s draft Artificial Intelligence and Other Emerging Technologies Policy was opened to public participation in 2026, with the government inviting submissions from businesses, universities, civil society groups and members of the public.
The proposed framework seeks to guide the development, deployment and governance of AI while strengthening digital infrastructure, human capital and public trust.
Kenya targets 30,000 young people for digital skills training
The Principal Secretary also highlighted growing cooperation between the government and major international technology companies, including Intel, Nvidia, LinkedIn, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Meta, Starlink and Google.
According to Tanui, the partnerships are intended to increase investment, develop local technical expertise and expand the use of digital technologies in public services.
He cited AWS as an example, saying its development centre in Kenya had grown from 20 engineers to nearly 200.
Tanui also said Meta was supporting a government application based on its Llama artificial intelligence models to improve access to public information.
The government, working with technology partners, plans to train 30,000 young Kenyans in cloud computing, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.
The training target is part of a broader effort to build a skilled workforce capable of supporting Kenya’s expanding digital economy and attracting technology investment.
Strategic Goods Control Bill targets sensitive technology trade
The talks also covered the Strategic Goods Control Bill, 2026, which is progressing through Parliament.
Tanui said the proposed legislation had received strong support from the United States and would establish a framework for regulating trade in strategic goods and sensitive technologies.
The Bill seeks to strengthen oversight of the import, export and handling of goods and technologies that could have security implications, including dual-use technologies and sensitive equipment.
Parliament has said the proposed law would establish a Strategic Goods Control Committee to improve coordination among government agencies and harmonise regulatory oversight.
The legislation is also relevant to Kenya’s ambitions in advanced technology trade, including semiconductors, drone technology and other emerging industries.
However, the Bill remains a legislative proposal and must complete the parliamentary process before becoming law.
Kenya seeks stronger US technology investment
The latest meeting builds on earlier engagements between Kenya and US technology companies and government representatives over digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and investment.
In September 2026, Tanui used the American Chamber of Commerce Business Summit in Nairobi to encourage US technology investors to deepen their partnerships with Kenya, particularly in AI, digital infrastructure and semiconductor-related skills development.
The government has increasingly positioned technology investment and digital skills as important components of its economic transformation agenda.
Tanui said the objective of the latest engagement was to secure partnerships that deliver practical benefits, including skills development, investment opportunities and greater participation by Kenyan businesses and innovators.
He said the government wanted digital policies that protect users without restricting the growth of local technology companies.
“Our aim is a partnership that delivers skills, investment and real opportunities for Kenyan innovators, businesses and young people,” Tanui stated.
