Madelena Monoja, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative for Programs
The Government of Kenya, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Microsoft, is set to launch a transformative initiative aimed at revolutionizing digital literacy and innovation in the public sector. The Regional Centre of Competence for AI and Digital Skilling, hosted by the Kenya School of Government (KSG), will provide cutting-edge training to public servants, equipping them with essential skills for the digital era.
The Centre, which will officially launch on December 6, is part of Kenya’s broader Digital Master Plan. It seeks to train at least 300,000 public sector workers in artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and cybersecurity, aligning with global trends in public service modernization. The first cohort, comprising 50 ICT directors, will undergo training from December 2 to December 4, culminating in their certification at the launch.
Madelena Monoja, UNDP’s Deputy Resident Representative for Programmes, highlighted the Centre’s strategic importance:
“This initiative supports Kenya’s Digital Master Plan, which targets the upskilling of public servants to enhance service delivery. By leveraging AI and digital technologies, we aim to foster innovation and improve public sector efficiency,” she said.
The training will adopt a blended approach, combining virtual and in-person sessions, utilizing KSG’s six regional campuses in Nairobi, Mombasa, Matuga, Embu, Baringo, and the soon-to-be-opened Vihiga and Kisumu branches. This decentralized model ensures nationwide access to training.
In parallel, Kenya is also launching the Timbuktu Green Tech Hub, a Pan-African initiative focusing on innovation in renewable energy and climate change. The Hub aims to address energy access challenges in Africa by promoting sustainable solutions and supporting climate adaptation and mitigation efforts.
“Kenya is already a leader in renewable energy production. Through the Green Tech Hub, we aim to scale this success and facilitate similar innovations across Africa,” Monoja added.
The Hub recently concluded a competitive call for proposals, receiving 688 applications from 46 African countries. After a rigorous review, 70 innovators were selected for the first cohort. The Hub will provide them with resources, mentorship, and opportunities to scale their solutions.
Vera Obonyo, Deputy Director of KSG’s eLearning and Development Institute, emphasized the Centre’s commitment to lifelong learning. “We’re not just offering one-time training. We’re creating a continuous learning journey for public servants at all levels leaders, mid-level managers, and operational staff. This will ensure they remain adept in an ever-evolving digital landscape,” she said.
Program durations will vary based on the target group and skill requirements, ranging from one-day sessions for senior officials to week-long technical courses. KSG will leverage its robust Learning Management System (LMS) to deliver online training, which has already benefited nearly 9,000 participants.
The initiative draws inspiration from a similar UNDP-supported program in Bangladesh, which has successfully upskilled civil servants in AI and digital technologies. Kenya aims to replicate and scale this model, eventually expanding the Centre’s reach to other African countries through a sustainable financial model.
“By strengthening institutional capacities in AI and digital skilling, we are future-proofing public services. This is not just a Kenyan effort; it’s a blueprint for Africa,” Monoja stated.
Key partners, including Microsoft and Google, are contributing to curriculum development and providing expert trainers. The government of Kenya and UNDP are jointly funding the initiative, with additional financial models under development to ensure its long-term sustainability.
Kenya leads the way in digital transformation and renewable energy innovation, these initiatives are poised to make a significant impact, enhancing public service delivery and fostering sustainable development across Africa.