NAIROBI, Kenya, May Safaricom has announced a Sh66 billion investment to build artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure across East Africa over the next three years.
The project will focus on upgrading digital infrastructure, forging collaborations with local and international tech partners, and accelerating talent development.
Targeted sectors are healthcare, agriculture, financial services, and education.
“It will serve as a catalyst for intelligent digital solutions, drive innovation across key industries, and enhance the region’s overall economic performance,” said Safaricom Chief Enterprise Business Officer Cynthia Kropac at the Connected Africa Summit in Nairobi.
Adoption of AI is growing, with big multinationals such as OpenAI and Microsoft, among others, taking the lead. The technologies have allowed businesses as well as individuals to automate activities.
Already, Safaricom has trained over 5,000 staff in AI fundamentals, laying the foundation for a smarter, tech-driven economy.
Kropac emphasized the importance of Africa charting its own course in the AI revolution, urging the continent to move from being a passive adopter to a proactive innovator.
