The declaration sets a foundation for AI research, skills development and public-sector applications, with future programmes subject to Kenyan data-protection laws.
Kenya and artificial intelligence company Anthropic have signed a Joint Declaration creating a framework for cooperation on responsible AI, local research and practical applications linked to the country’s national priorities.
The declaration was signed in New York on September 22, 2026, alongside the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly. It opens the way for government institutions to develop programmes with the company, but does not identify specific projects for immediate implementation.
Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Dr Abraham Korir Sing’Oei signed for the Kenyan Government, while Elizabeth Kelly, Anthropic’s Head of Beneficial Deployments, represented the company. Kenya’s Special Envoy on Technology, Ambassador Philip Thigo, and Anthropic Global Impact Lead Ambassador Courtney O’Donnell witnessed the signing.
Skills, research and public-sector applications
The proposed cooperation spans AI training, research, safety testing and evaluation, as well as responsible uses of the technology in public institutions. Education and health are among the areas identified for applications that address local needs.
Rather than prescribing a single government-wide project, the declaration establishes an umbrella arrangement under which ministries, departments and agencies can develop their own programmes and institutional partnerships with Anthropic.
Thigo said the cooperation was intended to strengthen Kenya’s AI expertise and support the development of responsible technologies suited to the country. He linked that work to stronger institutions and inclusive economic growth.
The framework also recognises the importance of expanding African participation in the development, evaluation and governance of advanced AI systems. Support for local research and the strengthening of technical and institutional capabilities form part of that approach.
Kenyan law to govern data use
Data protection and national sovereignty are central conditions for future programmes involving government information. Any access to, processing or use of data under those programmes must comply with Kenyan law, including relevant cybersecurity, data-protection and public-sector requirements.
The declaration preserves Kenya’s authority over its public data. It also maintains the responsibility of government institutions to safeguard personal and sensitive information when pursuing activities under the cooperation framework.
Thigo said working with Anthropic would support Kenya’s ambition to use AI responsibly while retaining control over its data and addressing its social and development priorities.
The framework further states that AI systems deployed in Kenya should take account of the country’s languages, institutions and social context, alongside its development goals.
Specific programmes still to be developed
Coordination will take place under the guidance of the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary and the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, working with relevant government institutions.
The next stage will involve turning the declaration into defined activities. These may include pilot projects, research initiatives, institutional partnerships and capacity-building programmes developed with the public bodies concerned.
The agreement sits within Kenya’s wider technology diplomacy efforts to deepen relationships with technology companies, research institutions and governments. Its stated priorities are to strengthen local skills and research, explore useful public-sector applications and keep future AI use within Kenya’s legal and data-governance requirements.
