On July 15, 2026, the Kenya National Innovation Agency (KeNIA) joined government, academia, industry and innovation leaders at the DU-BRAINS Conference 2026 to discuss the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in driving sustainable development, strengthening institutions and advancing Africa’s innovation agenda.
Hosted by Daystar University under the theme, "Reimagining Africa with AI: Ethics, Innovation, and Inclusion for a Transformative Future," the conference explored how responsible AI adoption, ethical technology development and cross-sector collaboration can accelerate innovation, strengthen Africa’s digital transformation agenda, positioning Kenya as a leading AI hub in the global space.
Opening discussions at the conference, Principal Secretary for the State Department for Science, Research and Innovation, Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak, emphasised the importance of building stronger links between government, institutions of higher learning and industry to create an innovation ecosystem that transforms research into practical and commercially viable solutions.
He further noted that leveraging locally generated data, increasing youth participation in science, research and innovation, and strengthening partnerships will be critical in accelerating commercialisation and positioning Kenya as Africa's innovation hub.
"Creating synergies and breaking silos across government, academia and industry will help us build a stronger innovation ecosystem that turns ideas into impact and accelerates Kenya's development agenda," Prof. Shaukat said.
Building on the call for stronger collaboration, KeNIA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Tonny Omwansa challenged stakeholders to move beyond policy discussions and focus on practical implementation of AI strategies that deliver measurable socio-economic benefits. He highlighted the role of universities in developing problem-solvers, venture builders and ethical technology leaders capable of transforming research into innovative products and services.
He also emphasised that responsible AI adoption, stronger international partnerships and effective intellectual property protection will be essential in unlocking Africa's innovation potential and ensuring that AI contributes meaningfully to economic growth and inclusive development.
"Policy is the starting line, not the finish line. Africa's AI moment requires moving from policy to practice through responsible AI, international partnerships, effective intellectual property protection and innovation that delivers socio-economic impact," Dr. Omwansa said.
Daystar University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Laban P. Ayiro urged stakeholders to ensure that AI development remains rooted in ethics, inclusion and respect for human dignity. “While technological advancement presents immense opportunities, it must always be guided by responsibility and a commitment to improving people's lives,” he said.
