The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Kenya have signed a landmark agreement to accelerate their digital transformation journeys. The Investment Memorandum, signed by the two countries’ respective ministries, establishes a framework for collaboration in digital infrastructure and artificial intelligence (AI).
This partnership holds immense potential for both nations. Kenya’s booming ICT sector, which has grown by 23% annually over the past decade, is poised for further expansion. The agreement could see the development of data center projects with a staggering 1,000 megawatt capacity, significantly boosting Kenya’s digital infrastructure.
The collaboration extends beyond hardware. The two countries will explore the potential of developing large language models, a cutting-edge technology in the realm of AI. This could revolutionize various sectors in both nations, from healthcare and finance to education and customer service.
The agreement fosters strong public-private partnerships, aiming to streamline cooperation on digital infrastructure projects and incentivize innovative initiatives. It also envisions a “digital corridor,” a secure network facilitating data exchange and processing between the UAE and Kenya.
“This partnership will be a game-changer,” said Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment. “Targeted investments in digital infrastructure and AI will propel these sectors forward, acting as a catalyst for broader economic growth and prosperity.”
Eliud Owalo, Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, echoed this sentiment. “This collaboration transcends mere strategy,” he stated. “It strengthens our ties with the UAE and paves the way for an inclusive, interconnected digital future for Africa.”