On International Artificial Intelligence Appreciation Day, This is Digital hosted an AI Appreciation Breakfast in Nairobi. Themed “The Age of AI: A Reality Check.” The event highlighted the urgent need for AI literacy programs across Africa. It emphasized that understanding artificial intelligence is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity. As AI continues to reshape industries and everyday life. Empowering individuals with the knowledge to navigate and leverage this technology has become a critical priority.
The event emphasized on the importance of unpacking what AI truly means for Africa. Resonating with an audience eager for clarity and direction.
Participants heard a compelling keynote from Moses Kemibaro of Dotsavvy. He traced Kenya’s digital transformation and spotlighting AI’s power to reshape communities and industries. Panelists included expert voices from marketing, entertainment, medicine, HR, and government. They emphasized that AI must be understood before it can be leveraged responsibly:
- Eugene Mbugua, D&R Studios: deconstructing AI in entertainment.
- Caroline Kendi, CK Marketing: the marketing implications of AI.
- Dr. Catherine Gathu, Aga Khan University: AI’s role in healthcare.
- Philip Muigai, Cloud Factory: how AI is changing HR and digital learning.
Why AI Literacy Matters
Africa is entering an era where AI can unlock unprecedented opportunities but only if people gain the skills to use it effectively. Kenya holds real potential, as shown by its 6th-place ranking on the 2024 Oxford Insights AI Readiness Index. To realize this promise, the country must match its readiness with widespread understanding, empowered agency, and ethical use of AI.
Without AI education, the continent risks being reactive receiving technology without shaping its trajectory. Literacy empowers Africans to define AI’s role in their markets, healthcare, governance, and creative industries, ensuring innovation is homegrown.
Launching the AI Literacy Program
In alignment with the call to action, This is Digital will launch its AI Literacy Program on 5th August 2025, aiming to equip participants across sectors with essential AI knowledge and skills.
- Online AI Bootcamp: Four Tuesday sessions [5th, 12th, 19th, 26th August], 7–9 PM.
- In‑Person Bootcamp: 27th –29th August in Nairobi.
- Monthly Cohorts: Recurring online and in-person classes.
Tailored for professionals, entrepreneurs, students, and educators, the program prioritizes hands-on learning and ethical awareness so participants not only use AI, but lead its responsible adoption.
This is Digital invites all eager to navigate and shape Africa’s AI journey to visit to register. Through this initiative, individuals will gain critical knowledge to excel in an AI-driven world transforming Africa’s future together.
