Ruto holds talks with ChatGPT CEO for AI Academy in Nairobi
Ruto holds talks with ChatGPT CEO for AI Academy in Nairobi
President William Ruto has held talks with OpenAI Chief Executive Officer Sam Altman for the global AI giant to establish East Africa’s first OpenAI Academy initiative in Nairobi.
The President held discussions with Altman at the G7 Leaders’ Summit in France, with talks set to continue after the initial discussions.
In a statement released on Wednesday, June 17, the President said the leaders explored potential collaboration in artificial intelligence and digital transformation.
“We explored potential collaboration through establishing Nairobi as the home of the first OpenAI Academy initiative in Eastern Africa, expanding AI education, strengthening digital skills, supporting educators and learners, and reinforcing Kenya’s position as a leading hub for AI talent and innovation,” the statement read.
Ruto added that the engagement focused on expanding access to artificial intelligence education across the region.
Additionally, he noted that strengthening digital skills among young people remains a priority in Kenya’s broader development agenda, with the intention to ensure they benefit from new opportunities under the digital economy.
The president said that the proposed initiative is aimed at supporting both educators and learners in adapting to emerging technologies.
“I underscored the importance of harnessing emerging technologies to create opportunities for young people, drive innovation and ensure Africa plays a meaningful role in shaping the future digital economy,” Ruto stated.
Further, Ruto said the collaboration would help position Kenya as a regional hub for artificial intelligence talent and play a major role in shaping future economic growth and innovation.
Ivy Namu announces breakup with Willis Raburu
Woman succumbs to stab wounds after fight with husband over sale of radio for alcohol purchase
HELB lists requirements ahead of student loan application portal opening
The talks signal a significant development as Africa currently hosts one official OpenAI academy, which is under the University of Lagos in Nigeria.
A report that identified Kenya as one of the highest users of ChatGPT globally underscores the academy’s relevance in the country.
According to the July 2025 Global Digital Report by DataReportal and Meltwater, 42.1 per cent of Kenyan internet users aged 16 and above used ChatGPT that month, which was the highest rate recorded worldwide.
Despite this high usage, OpenAI has previously faced scrutiny over the working conditions of outsourced data workers in Kenya after the company contracted a significant portion of the human labour required to train ChatGPT and develop its safety filters to data workers based in Nairobi.
Some Kenyan data labellers involved in training safety systems for the chatbot have since raised concerns over their working conditions, calling for stronger safeguards and protections for individuals exposed to sensitive online content during the moderation and training process.
Homa Bay teachers warn of disaster as school latrines risk collapse
EACC arrests former senior government official over Ksh 12M fraud
Follow us
