Google has released a new report showing that Kenyans are increasingly interested in acquiring AI skills. The report also highlights a growing tech trend in the country. According to the report, the tech trend is being driven by the demand for AI-related jobs and courses.
The report also reveals that Kenyans are searching for AI-related keywords more frequently. These keywords include “machine learning,” “data science,” and “artificial intelligence.”
The report also shows that the interest in AI skills is not limited to specific regions within Kenya. Instead, it is a nationwide trend.
AI’s surge in Kenya
Kenya is experiencing a remarkable surge in AI interest. Google searches about artificial intelligence have skyrocketed. This shows a 150% increase compared to last year. This trend highlights the country’s growing tech curiosity and eagerness to embrace new technologies.
Kenya’s AI boom is driven by a simple desire: Kenyans want to understand and use AI in their daily lives, business and careers. Searches for “what is AI” jumped by 60%, while “how to use AI” queries nearly doubled.
Kenya’s AI enthusiasm is not just local – it’s making waves globally:
- 4th highest AI search interest in Africa
- 13th globally in AI-related searches
This surge isn’t just about curiosity. Kenyans are also actively seeking ways to skill up and find opportunities in the AI field:
- “AI course” searches more than doubled
- “AI jobs” searches tripled
Agnes Gathaiya, Google East Africa Country Director, points out that AI has the power to create extraordinary opportunities for everyone. It’s no wonder Kenyans are eager to harness this transformative technology.
What are Kenyans searching for in AI?
- Career boosters:
- AI jobs
- AI courses
- Where to learn AI and machine learning in Kenya
- Creativity tools:
- AI-generated images
- AI logo makers
- AI text chat generators
- Business applications:
- AI and business (60% increase in searches)
- AI and startups (70% increase)
- Healthcare innovations:
- AI in medicine and healthcare (50% increase)
- AI in hospitals (90% increase)
The AI wave is also touching other crucial sectors:
- Cybersecurity: Searches linking AI and cybersecurity doubled
- Science: Growing interest in AI’s future role in scientific research
You might worry that AI will replace jobs, but experts have a different view.
Cynthia Kamau from Ernst and Young suggests that AI adoption will create new job demands. Companies will need humans to lead the AI charge, opening doors for software engineers, data scientists, and other specialists.
To make the most of this AI revolution, consider these steps:
- Learn the basics: Start with online courses about AI fundamentals
- Explore specific applications: Look into AI in your field of interest
- Stay updated: Follow AI news and developments regularly. Kenya AI can help
- Practice: Try using AI tools in your daily work or projects
- Network: Connect with others interested in AI to share knowledge
