The Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA), in partnership with Microsoft, has launched the Kenya Artificial Intelligence Skilling Alliance (KAISA), a national platform designed to coordinate AI skills development, innovation, and policy collaboration across key sectors of the Kenyan economy. Addressing a Fragmented Ecosystem The launch event convened leaders from government, the private sector, academia, and development partners to bolster Kenya's competitiveness in the rapidly expanding global AI market. Despite Kenya being recognized as one of the most AI-ready nations in Africa, its AI ecosystem remains fragmented. KAISA intends to bridge this gap by providing a coordinated framework connecting skills, policy, and innovation. The alliance will unite government, academia, the private sector, civil society, and development partners to align training with industry needs, promote ethical AI practices, and broaden opportunities for youth, women, and marginalized groups. "KAISA is focused on inclusivity, job creation, and social transformation," stated Dr. Ehud Gachugu, Deputy CEO at KEPSA. "Through coordinated efforts, the Alliance will connect innovation with opportunity, enhance the quality of training, and scale successful models that empower communities to participate meaningfully in the global digital economy." Microsoft's Role in KAISA Microsoft’s partnership with KEPSA, through KAISA, builds upon ongoing digital skilling programs that have already benefited thousands of young Kenyans and small businesses. This collaboration will expand to encompass curriculum development, innovation incubation, and research partnerships across sectors including agriculture, health, education, finance, and manufacturing. Phyllis Migwi, Country General Manager, Microsoft, Kenya, highlighted the necessity of investing in skills development, stating, "Skills, not just innovation, will determine how far Kenya goes in the AI era." Ambassador Phillip Thigo, Special Envoy on Technology, Government of Kenya, emphasized the importance of ensuring that technology serves humanity and that Kenya's AI journey is rooted in agency, intentionality, and inclusivity. KAISA's Roadmap The 24-month roadmap for KAISA includes:

Establishing sector-based working groups.
Rolling out national skilling programs.
Creating an AI repository and innovation hub.

The platform will also promote research partnerships, policy engagement, and ethical governance frameworks to ensure AI deployment supports inclusive economic growth. Organizations interested in joining the Alliance can learn more through KAISA’s Landing page.