First Lady Rachel Ruto has sent a heartwarming message to Technology and Public Policy Expert Philip Thigo after he was appointed to the United Nations Secretary General's High-Level advisory body.
Thigo will give advisory services on Artificial Intelligence in the office of the UN Secretary-General.
In a statement, Mama Rachael said that Thigo's expertise will shape the future of AI.
"Congratulations to Philip Thigo on his appointment to the United Nations High-level Advisory Body on Artificial Intelligence! Thigo is a renowned expert on technology, data and public policy," she said.
"His dedication and expertise will undoubtedly have a significant impact on shaping the future of artificial intelligence for a more inclusive and innovative world. We look forward to his contributions to the global AI community."
The announcement came after UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres established an advisory body on Artificial Intelligence in response to the rapid development of AI.
"His appointment to the Advisory Body signals the UN's commitment to harness profound knowledge across AI and related fields from a variety of sectors, ensuring inclusivity in terms of gender, age, geography, and expertise," read the statement announcing his appointment on Thursday.
The advisory body comprises 38 members (20 women and 18 men).
It also has a permanent member of the Secretariat.
"The body is gender-balanced, geographically diverse, and inclusive of all age groups, representing 33 countries from all continents," read the statement in part.
The advisory body is not only a response to the rapid growth of AI but also sets the stage for the Summit of the Future, where a Global Digital Compact is expected to be adopted.
The body aims to consolidate global scientific consensus on AI risks, challenges, and the immense potential AI holds in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Currently, Thigo serves as the Executive Director for Africa at the Thunderbird School for Global Management – at Arizona State University and is an Advisor and technical lead on Open Government for the Government of Kenya.
He was recognised as the "World's 100 Most Influential People in Digital Government" in 2018 and as one of Africa's "Top 100 Most Influential African Leaders in Technology and Telecommunications" in 2023.
Further, he was recently appointed by ICT CS Eliud Owalo to help reform the ICT, broadcast, and telecommunication sectors in line with technological advancements.
