Artificial Intelligence ( AI) is billed to revolutionize Kenya’s economy with an additional Sh311 billion to the country’s GDP.
A report by The Digital Opportunity of Kenya highlighted the transformative power of AI, showcasing its ability to enhance productivity across industries and improve the lives of Kenyans.
AI’s impact on Kenya’s economy stems from its potential to increase efficiency and innovation in businesses and households.
Already, 70 per cent of online adults in Kenya use AI-powered tools weekly, with many recognizing its benefits.
75 per cent are interested in AI’s ability to protect them online, 66 per cent see AI as a way to reduce repetitive tasks at work, and 61 per cent believe AI could help lower household energy consumption.
For businesses, the adoption of AI is a strategic priority.
Around 70 per cent of online businesses expect AI to enhance productivity in the coming years, while 54 per cent plan to invest in AI tools soon.
Additionally, 45 per cent of businesses see AI as the emerging technology offering the greatest opportunity for growth.
AI’s benefits go beyond economic gains, extending to critical sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education, and climate risk management.
Google’s local AI research team in Nairobi is actively working on bold, responsible AI solutions to address real-world challenges.
One such project, in collaboration with Jacaranda Health, seeks to transform maternal healthcare in Kenya.
Currently, only 16 per cent of pregnant women in Kenya have access to ultrasound services due to the high cost of traditional machines, frequent power outages, and the need for highly trained operators.
To bridge this gap, Google and Jacaranda Health are testing AI-powered handheld ultrasound devices.
These portable, power-efficient devices simplify the process of capturing and interpreting ultrasound images, enabling nurses and technicians with minimal training to perform scans.
This innovation Google holds the potential of drastically improving maternal and newborn health outcomes.
Jay Patel, Head of Technology at Jacaranda Health, emphasized the significance of this collaboration.
He said the work planned with support from these Fellows will give a springboard to significantly improve maternal and newborn health outcomes through the power of AI and push the boundaries of what is possible in healthcare.
“The work we have planned with support from these Fellows will give us the springboard to significantly improve maternal and newborn health outcomes through the power of AI, and push the boundaries of what’s possible in healthcare,” Patel said.
As AI adoption accelerates, Kenya’s integration of this technology promises to reshape its economic and social landscape. With strategic investments and initiatives like these, the country is well-positioned to unlock the full potential of artificial intelligence.