NAIROBI, Kenya- Kenyans are increasingly turning to Google to learn about artificial intelligence (AI), with search interest in the topic soaring by 150pc compared to last year, according to Google’s latest search trends.
This surge in curiosity underscores a growing national interest in both understanding and harnessing the power of AI for various applications.
Kenya has become a hotbed of AI curiosity, recording the highest number of searches for “AI” in 2024 across the country.
The spike in searches isn’t just about understanding the basics; Kenyans are eager to dive deeper into how AI can be used in their daily lives and careers.
In fact, searches for “how to use AI” have skyrocketed by 90pc, while inquiries about “what is AI” have increased by 60pc.
Agnes Gathaiya, Google’s East Africa Country Director, notes that this growing interest reflects a broader trend towards acquiring AI skills.
“AI has the potential to create opportunities for everyone,” she said. “It’s no surprise that Kenyans are looking to make the most of this transformational technology, finding ways to learn AI skills to boost their careers, creativity, and societal impact.”
The hunger for AI knowledge isn’t just theoretical—Kenyans are actively seeking out ways to build careers in this emerging field.
Google reports that searches for “AI course” have more than doubled, while searches for “AI jobs” have tripled.
Trending topics include practical applications like “AI-generated images,” “AI logo maker,” and “AI text chat generator,” all of which have seen a 5,000pc increase in interest since last year.
This surge in interest is also mirrored in the demand for AI in business and entrepreneurship. Searches for “AI and business” have increased by 60pc, while those for “AI and startups” have grown by 70pc.
This trend indicates a strong desire among Kenyans to leverage AI not just for personal advancement, but also to innovate within the business landscape .
As AI continues to capture the imagination of many, concerns about job displacement are tempered by the potential for new opportunities.
Cynthia Kamau, an associate at Ernst and Young, believes that while AI may automate some roles, it will also create demand for new jobs in fields like software engineering, data science, and other specialized areas.
“This pioneering phase will require humans to lead the charge,” Kamau explained. Companies will need skilled professionals to capitalize on the efficiencies and profitability that AI systems promise .
Google’s data also shows a growing interest in AI’s role in specific sectors like healthcare and cybersecurity.
Searches for “AI and healthcare” doubled, reflecting a keen interest in how AI can revolutionize medical practices and hospital management. Similarly, searches for “AI and cybersecurity” saw a 110pc increase, highlighting the importance of AI in safeguarding digital spaces.
Kenyans are not just watching the AI revolution—they’re actively participating in it. With skyrocketing interest in AI applications, courses, and job opportunities, Kenya is positioning itself as a key player in the global AI landscape.
