TechTrends Media today hosted the TechTrends AI Breakfast Forum at Hyatt Place Nairobi, bringing together senior executives, AI experts, and policymakers to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping business, advancing digital inclusion, and unlocking the next growth frontier across Africa.
Held under the theme “AI-Powered Transformation: Unlocking Africa’s Next Growth Frontier,” the forum examined practical enterprise use cases, responsible deployment, and the skills Africa needs to compete in an AI-driven economy.
Delivering the keynote, Annepeace Alwala, Vice President, Global Service Delivery at Sama, emphasized AI’s role in inclusive growth.
“Africa is at a pivotal point where technology and innovation can accelerate development like never before,” said Alwala. “AI offers us a unique opportunity to leapfrog barriers, improve productivity, and create new jobs for our people.”
“Our teams from Kibera are proof that African talent powers global innovation training the data behind autonomous vehicles. AI cannot breathe without people; data is its oxygen. If the data is flawed, the model won’t work.” said Alwala.
Industry leaders from Samsung Electronics East Africa, AI Kenya, iTel Mobile, and CyberPro shared insights spanning enterprise AI applications, workforce upskilling, ethical AI management, and digital inclusion through affordable devices and services.
“AI is not about some futuristic tools but about addressing the daily business issues in the present day such as improving workforce productivity and enhancing cybersecurity.” Noted Ryan Mule, Product Manager, Samsung Electronics East Africa.
A centrepiece of the program was TechTrends Live, a series of interactive podcast panels featuring Alfred Ongere (CEO, AI Kenya), Benta Kamau (CyberPro), Joseph Henry Okal (Glidex), and Ryan Zhang (iTel Mobile). The conversations explored how AI is being adopted by African businesses, what policy frameworks can ensure fair and responsible use, and what it will take to broaden meaningful participation in the digital economy.
“Digital inclusion requires more than just devices it demands affordable data, localized solutions, and stronger digital literacy.” Emphasized Ryan Zhang.
The event also recognized outstanding contributors to the ecosystem through an Awards & Recognition Ceremony, followed by a networking lunch that convened decision-makers, innovators, and the media to catalyze new partnerships.
Nixon Kanali, Founder of TechTrends Media and host of The TechTrends Podcast, said the forum aims to make AI actionable for organizations of all sizes:
“Our mission with the AI Breakfast Forum is to demystify AI and show how it can practically transform businesses, SMEs, and communities in Kenya and across Africa.”
