Safaricom has announced plans to invest Sh66 billion over the next three years to develop artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure across East Africa, marking one of the region’s biggest technology investments in emerging innovation.
The announcement was made during the Connected Africa Summit in Nairobi, where the company revealed that the investment will focus on strengthening digital infrastructure, forming strategic partnerships, and accelerating AI skills development.
The initiative will mainly target key sectors including healthcare, agriculture, finance, and education, with the goal of improving services and driving economic transformation through AI-powered solutions.
According to Cynthia Kropac, Chief Enterprise Business Officer at Safaricom, the investment is expected to boost innovation, support intelligent digital systems, and contribute to regional economic growth.
“This initiative will drive innovation, power intelligent digital solutions, and strengthen economic growth across the region,” said Cynthia Kropac, Safaricom’s Chief Enterprise Business Officer.
As part of its AI strategy, Safaricom has already trained more than 5,000 employees in AI fundamentals to prepare its workforce for the future digital economy.
Kropac also stressed the importance of Africa taking a leading role in the global AI revolution by creating homegrown solutions designed to address local challenges and opportunities.
With global technology companies rapidly advancing AI adoption, Safaricom’s move positions East Africa as an emerging hub for artificial intelligence innovation and digital transformation.