Aldai Member of Parliament, Marianne Kitany, has urge the government to Swiftly develop a robust legal and ethical framework to govern the development and use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies.
This call follows growing concerns about the uncontrolled spread of AI and its potential to cause societal harm.
Speaking during the presentation of a motion in the National Assembly, Kitany said, “the world is rapidly embracing Artificial Intelligence, which involves the use of digital computers or computer-controlled robots to perform tasks typically associated with intelligent beings,” she said. “But without appropriate safeguards, the use of AI has already shown serious negative effects including the rise of disinformation, fake news, and manipulation of public opinion.”
Kenya has made strides in adopting emerging technologies,however, Kitany expressed concern that the country’s regulatory capacity is not keeping pace with the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
According to the 2022 Government Artificial Intelligence Readiness Index, Kenya ranks 5th in Africa and 90th globally. The Oxford Insights Survey placed Kenya’s AI readiness at 40.3%, indicating that while the country has notable digital infrastructure and policy ambitions, it lacks essential elements such as governance frameworks, data privacy protections, and human capital development.
“Kenya has great potential to harness AI to improve public service delivery, enhance agricultural productivity, and support healthcare systems. However, we must first establish strong legal and ethical foundations to guide its responsible use,” Kitany stressed.
In her motion, Kitany highlighted a range of risks linked to the misuse of artificial intelligence, emphasizing the urgent need for regulatory safeguards. She warned that AI technologies, if left unregulated, could lead to serious privacy breaches and data exploitation, exposing individuals to unauthorized surveillance and misuse of personal information.
She also pointed to the danger of algorithmic bias and discrimination, especially in sensitive areas such as hiring practices and law enforcement, where biased data can reinforce systemic inequalities. Another major concern is the potential displacement of workers as automation replaces human labor, raising fears about rising unemployment and widening socio-economic gaps.
Kitany further cautioned against the manipulation of financial markets by AI-powered systems, as well as the growing threat of social engineering and psychological manipulation through AI-generated content such as deepfakes and synthetic media. Additionally, she raised alarms over the possible use of AI in autonomous weapons and surveillance systems, which could escalate security threats and human rights violations. Lastly, she noted that uneven access to AI technologies could exacerbate existing inequalities, concentrating power and opportunity in the hands of a few while leaving vulnerable communities further behind.
Kitany also warned about the growing use of generative AI tools that can imitate human voices, produce realistic deepfake videos, or impersonate individuals, which could undermine trust in information systems and democratic institutions.
As part of the way forward, the motion calls on the Ministry of Information, Communication, and the Digital Economy to take the lead in formulating a comprehensive response to the challenges posed by artificial intelligence.
Key among the recommendations is the development of a national AI regulatory framework that outlines clear guidelines on accountability, transparency, and ethical standards to guide the deployment and use of AI technologies.
The motion also proposes the establishment of an independent oversight body responsible for monitoring AI applications and ensuring compliance with national laws and ethical norms.
In addition, it calls for the launch of a nationwide public awareness campaign aimed at educating citizens,including young people, educators, and policymakers on both the potential benefits and risks associated with AI.
Kitany highlighted that developing such a framework aligns with global best practices, referencing the European Union’s recently passed AI Act and the efforts of countries like Canada, the UK, and South Korea, which have already implemented national AI strategies emphasizing ethical standards and public safety.
“Kenya cannot afford to be a passive consumer of foreign-made AI tools. We must shape the development of AI in a way that protects our people, preserves our values, and promotes inclusive economic growth,” she concluded.
If adopted by Parliament, the motion is expected to fast-track Kenya’s efforts toward responsible AI innovation, ensuring the country can reap the benefits of new technologies while mitigating their most dangerous risks.
