#Kenya #Digital Sovereignty #MindHYVE.ai #APAIC 2025 #Mombasa

Africa Premier AI Conference 2025

The Africa Premier AI Conference 2025 (APAIC 2025) was inaugurated in Mombasa today, marking a pivotal moment for the continent's role in the global digital landscape. The event commenced with an inspiring keynote speech from Mary Kerema, the Secretary of ICT, E-Government, and Digital Economy of Kenya. Her address called for a unified approach among African leaders, innovators, and partners to build a digital future that aligns with African values and leverages local talent.

Kerema initiated the session by proclaiming the beginning of a "Decade of Intelligence" for Africa. She emphasized the imperative for artificial intelligence (AI) to be intentional, inclusive, and ethically grounded. Her insights highlighted that technology achieves its true potential when it positively impacts lives, particularly those who are marginalized.

"Digital sovereignty is not about isolation. It embodies the right for African nations and people to shape AI systems according to their needs," she stated. This call for sovereignty resonated as a powerful reminder that solutions should be designed to address the continent's unique challenges, such as infrastructure deficits and skill shortages, while also tapping into its rich diversity and resilience.

Kerema underscored notable examples of innovation across Africa, particularly in sectors like health, education, and fintech. She paid tribute to the entrepreneurs who, in collaboration with global partners, are crafting solutions that respect local contexts while remaining modular and inclusive.

A Collaborative Future with Agentic AI

The conference is co-sponsored by MindHYVE.ai, a prominent U.S. artificial intelligence company. Bill Faruki, the founder and CEO, presented the concept of Agentic AI—a framework designed to empower users through autonomy, clarity, and ethical alignment. Faruki articulated how Agentic AI embodies the collaborative and inclusive spirit of African culture, providing tools necessary for communities, governments, and enterprises to take ownership of their digital futures.

The emphasis on youth and women in shaping this future was another crucial point made by Kerema. She stressed the need for investment in skill-building and initiatives aimed at integrating women into the AI field, reflecting the conference's commitment to inclusivity. Strategies should focus not merely on innovation rhetoric but actionable partnerships that yield tangible community benefits.

Moving Forward Together

As the conference continues, participants are encouraged to focus on creating platforms that empower educators, healthcare workers, and entrepreneurs. The call for policies that nurture innovative atmospheres aligned with ethical AI practices was a recurring theme. In her closing remarks, Kerema motivated all attendees to leave with a firm commitment to accelerate Africa's digital journey, stating, "If you want to go far, go together."

The Africa Premier AI Conference serves as the continent's leading platform for dialogue on AI policy and innovation, uniting government, business, academic, and civil society leaders as they navigate Africa’s evolving role in the ongoing global digital transformation.

For more information on APAIC 2025 and the role of MindHYVE.ai in this transformative journey, please visit their website or reach out through their contact details. Together, as African nations embrace the AI revolution, they are poised to emerge as leaders rather than mere participants, fully equipped to utilize technology to foster growth and equity.