The Public Service Commission (PSC) will partner with Mozilla and the African Advanced Level Telecommunication Institute (AFRALTI) with the aim of modernising open-source technologies and improving service delivery to citizens in the country.
Speaking during an Artificial Intelligence (AI) workshop in Nairobi, a Commissioner at PSC, Andrew Muriuki, said that this was a milestone aimed at harnessing the transformative potential of open-source technologies and responsible AI practices.
Muriuki noted that Kenya has leveraged open-source software to become a global leader in the digitisation of service delivery, and the PSC, on its part, has relied on technology to deliver on its mandate.
“Despite the advances made so far in service delivery, AI offers more opportunities to make service delivery efficient, effective, and affordable,” he said, noting that the citizens demand access to transparent and interactive customer service, which makes it imperative for both the public and private sectors to enhance service delivery.
He acknowledged the support of AFRALTI and Mozilla’s Africa Mradi Initiative for co-sponsoring the event, terming their commitment as a way of advancing digital inclusion and promoting ethical technology in creating Africa’s sustainable and inclusive digital future.
Muriuki said that the country is at a pivotal point in the evolution of technology across the continent, insisting that there is a need to improve ICT sector performance in order to keep up with the needs of the citizens.
“AI presents us with opportunities to positively impact the lives of our citizens by improving various aspects of technology, from security, governance, costs, training, and compliance with laws and regulations,” he stated.
Additionally, he stated that within public service, the impact of open-source software and AI is undeniable across sectors including telecommunications, healthcare, education, and financial services.
He noted that innovations leveraging AI drive efficiencies, improve service delivery, and foster a culture of collaboration between service providers and clients.
“In Kenya, AI presents opportunities to enhance public health through lowering patient costs, accurate diagnosis, and providing personalised healthcare to each patient, he said.
He added that in Agriculture, AI helps farmers to maximise yields from farms and improve productivity, while in public safety and law enforcement, AI provides insights into crime prevention, disaster management, and the delivery of justice in law courts.
He added the goal was to equip ICT professionals with skills that navigate the open-source and AI landscape, including enhancing competency, improving service delivery in both private and public sectors, promoting ethical AI practices, fostering a culture of innovation, bridging the skills gap, promoting collaboration across sectors, and catalysing digital transformation.
“This training programme aims to equip our staff with the requisite insights to be in a position to impact the future of open source and AI in Kenya and to ensure that as we make advancements all aspects are taken into consideration,” he stated, adding that despite advantages provided by technology, challenges arise from cyber security, data governance, skills gaps, and adequate resourcing.
Muchiri said that the training, as part of a larger vision, will foster long-term sustainable growth, noting that the initial group of 100 individuals trained professionals will be the nucleus of a growing network, promoting collaboration and knowledge-sharing across industries.
“We aim to replicate this model across other African nations, building on partnerships with technology providers, educational institutions, and key stakeholders. As we look to the future, securing additional funding and sponsorship will be crucial to ensuring that the training programme remains a continuous and impactful effort, benefiting more professionals in the years to come,” he said.
Mozilla Foundation Chairperson Mitchell Baker said that the connection between open source and AI is very specific, thus enabling government agencies and private entities to build communities with expertise in the technologies.
Baker added that when it comes to the adoption of AI in particular, one should verify its impact and effect when using any technology by looking at what AI-driven software claims to do and what it actually does.
“The Data Privacy Act in Kenya is a momentous piece as it focuses on capacity building of technical expertise in efforts to protect citizens’s data and privacy,” she said.
By Sharon Atieno and Glory Mukhwana
