Search interest in “AI” has reached a record high around the world and in Kenya, where searches have more than doubled (+150%) since the same period last year. Searches in Kenya for “what is AI” also increased by 60%, while searches for “how to use AI” increased by 90%. Kenya has the fourth highest search interest in AI in Africa – and ranks 13th in the world.
Kenyans are looking to use AI to build their careers and creativity – with trending searches including “AI generated images”, “AI logo maker”, “AI text chat generator” and “ask AI questions” – all of which were ‘breakout’ searches in 2024, growing over 5,000% in interest since this time last year.
The research also shows that Kenyans are keen to grow their AI skills and qualifications. Searches for “AI jobs” more than tripled (+230%), while searches for “AI course” more than doubled (+120%). Top queries around AI and learning include “where to learn AI and machine learning in Kenya”, “learn prompt engineering”, and “what is needed to learn AI”. Searches for “AI and business” increased by 60%, while searches for “AI and startups” increased by 70%.
Aligned with its commitment to AI as a force for positive societal change, Google offers free AI training programs to Africans through its Hustle Academy. This initiative, designed for entrepreneurs, includes modules specifically tailored to teach participants how to leverage AI to improve their businesses. Since its launch in 2022, Hustle Academy has empowered over 10,000 businesses. Additionally, Google supports promising AI-focused startups in Africa through its Google for Startups Accelerator Africa program. This program, which assists startups tackling African challenges, selected 10 AI-driven ventures for its 2024 cohort.
Search interest in cybersecurity and AI also doubled across Kenya (+110%), while people showed a clear interest in the future of AI for science. Searches for AI and healthcare doubled (+100%), while searches for AI and medicine and AI and healthcare increased by 50%, while searches for AI and hospitals increased by 90%.
:“AI has the potential to create opportunities – from the extraordinary to the everyday – for everyone: bringing new waves of innovation, social and economic progress. So it’s no surprise that the people of Kenya are already looking to make the most of this transformational technology – finding ways to learn more AI skills to boost their career, creativity, and society.” Said Agnes Gathaiya, country director for Google East Africa.
