Moi University to Host Sub-Saharan Africa’s First AI Summit

Moi University is set to host the first-ever Artificial Intelligence (AI) Summit in Sub-Saharan Africa, an event expected to cement Kenya’s position as a regional leader in digital innovation and higher education.

The summit will convene global technology experts, policymakers, innovators, and students for high-level discussions on the opportunities and risks of AI in education, business, and governance.

According to Basic Education Principal Secretary Dr. Julius Bittok, an alumnus of Moi University, the event marks a major turning point for the institution as it seeks to reassert itself as a centre of research and innovation.

“This summit will break new heights for Moi University, especially at a time when the institution is navigating a challenging phase,” said Dr. Bittok. “It provides a platform to showcase Kenya’s growing capability in AI-driven education and industry solutions.”

The event aligns with the government’s digital transformation strategy under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which seeks to embed technology across education, agriculture, health, and manufacturing sectors.

Organisers say the AI Summit will feature exhibitions, workshops, and panel sessions focusing on the practical applications of artificial intelligence in solving African challenges. Global tech companies and local startups are expected to participate, alongside research institutions and government agencies.

University representatives note that the initiative aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry by exposing students to real-world innovations and mentorship from leading experts.

Officials present Eng. John Tanui, CBS, Principal Secretary, State Department for ICT , together with other distinguished stakeholders, as part of the preparations for the Inaugural Kenya Software and AI Inaugural Summit.

Established in 1984 as Kenya’s second public university, Moi University has been instrumental in advancing higher education and research. However, it has faced financial and operational difficulties in recent years. The AI Summit, stakeholders say, could restore confidence and reposition the institution as a pioneer in technology-driven education.

Industry analysts point out that the move also reflects Africa’s growing relevance in the global AI conversation, with Kenya emerging as a preferred destination for data science and tech investments.

“This is about more than just hosting a conference,” Dr. Bittok added. “It’s about signalling that Kenya and Africa  are ready to lead in responsible AI development.”

The summit is expected to create new linkages between academia, government, and the private sector, while showcasing local innovations that can drive inclusive growth in the digital era.