Sama AI and University of Nairobi Partner to Boost Generative AI Skills and Position Kenya as a Global Leader

Sama AI has announced a strategic partnership with the University of Nairobi (UoN) aimed at enhancing the country’s generative AI (GenAI) capabilities. This collaboration is set to bolster Kenya’s standing as a leading player in the Global Business Services (GBS) sector, reflecting a growing trend in the integration of advanced technologies within the region.

The partnership will provide UoN faculty and students with part-time employment opportunities, granting them practical experience in the rapidly evolving field of generative AI. Sama AI’s Chief Executive Officer, Wendy Gonzalez, emphasized the initiative’s dual focus: not only advancing technical skills but also promoting inclusivity by targeting women and individuals in rural areas. This move aligns with Kenya’s broader objective to leverage its high-quality human capital and digital training advancements to gain a competitive edge in the global market.

Kenya is increasingly recognized for its robust digital skills pool, which has positioned it as a prime destination for GBS, including Business Process Outsourcing (BPO). The projected revenue for Kenya’s BPO sector, which now integrates AI supply chains, is expected to hit Ksh 32.8 billion ($254 million) this year alone. This follows a broader trend where the global GBS market reached $1 trillion last year, with Africa’s leading markets including South Africa, Egypt, Tunisia, and Morocco. Kenya’s strategic focus on generative AI aims to bolster its position among these emerging markets, which also include Senegal, Nigeria, Mauritius, Zimbabwe, Rwanda, and Ghana.

Gonzalez highlighted the competitive landscape, noting that while Kenya’s progress is notable, it faces challenges from other countries vying for a slice of the GBS market. The partnership with UoN is seen as a proactive step to secure and enhance Kenya’s market position by developing a skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of global businesses.

The impact of generative AI is becoming increasingly evident, with 65% of organizations already integrating this technology into their operations. Its applications range from enhancing customer service to transforming entire industries. To prepare Kenya’s workforce for these opportunities, ICT and the Digital Economy Principal Secretary John Tanui emphasized the government’s commitment to establishing policies and frameworks that foster innovation. This includes investing in research and development while adhering to ethical AI principles.

Tanui noted that partnerships like the one between Sama AI and UoN are critical for equipping the next generation of professionals with the skills needed to thrive in a digital future. “With 65% of organizations already integrating Generative AI into operations, its impact is undeniable,” Tanui said. “As we embrace this digital future, partnerships and education in STEM are key to preparing our workforce for the opportunities ahead.”

At the core of this initiative is the University of Nairobi, which plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between academic training and industry requirements. Prof. Margaret Hutchinson, the Acting Vice Chancellor of UoN, underscored the institution’s commitment to ensuring that graduates are both job-ready and future-ready. “The University of Nairobi is dedicated to equipping students with the skills necessary to navigate and succeed in the digital economy,” Prof. Hutchinson stated.

The global market for generative AI is forecasted to contribute between $2.6 and $4.4 trillion annually to the world economy. This substantial economic potential underscores the importance of Kenya’s proactive approach to building a skilled workforce and fostering innovation. As the partnership between Sama AI and the University of Nairobi unfolds, it is poised to not only enhance Kenya’s capabilities in generative AI but also to solidify its role as a leading GBS destination in the emerging markets.

In conclusion, the collaboration between Sama AI and the University of Nairobi marks a significant step forward in Kenya’s technological and economic landscape. By investing in generative AI skills and promoting inclusivity, Kenya aims to leverage its human capital and secure its place at the forefront of the global business services industry.