Photo | courtesy.
Safaricom has unveiled a bold $500 million (KSh66 billion) investment plan to develop and expand artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure across East Africa over the next three years, in a bid to transform the region’s digital landscape.
Announced during the Connected Africa Summit in Nairobi, the initiative is poised to revolutionize digital connectivity and open up AI-powered opportunities for businesses of all sizes. Safaricom says the investment will catalyze innovation and significantly enhance productivity across key economic sectors.
“This investment goes beyond traditional connectivity,” said Cynthia Kropac, Chief Enterprise Business Officer at Safaricom. “It will unlock advanced digital services, stimulate innovation, and position East Africa as a formidable digital economy.”
Kropac underscored the importance of Africa actively shaping its own AI future, rather than relying on imported technologies from the West or Asia.
ALSO READ: How Founders Can Win Investor Confidence and Secure Funding
Safaricom has already laid the groundwork by training 5,000 of its employees in AI fundamentals, signaling its commitment to fostering a locally driven, intelligent economy.
The strategic investment will cover infrastructure development, partnerships with both local and global tech players, and upskilling initiatives to nurture talent and drive AI adoption in sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education, and finance.
