AI Searches Hit Record High in Kenya, Google Report

According to recent research, more Kenyans are searching for artificial intelligence (AI) online, with job searches among the most popular terms.

Based on Google data, AI searches have surged by 270 percent in the last year and 400 percent in the last five years.

According to the California-based organization, the most searched topics in the country were careers, internet companies from home, and how to get new certifications, particularly in digital skills.

This comes after the internet company launched its conversational AI service Bard (in English and Swahili) in March and July of this year.

“It’s great to see people in Kenya showing such a keen interest in the transformational technology that is AI,” said Google East Africa Country Director Agnes Gathaiya.

“People in Africa and across the world are already using and benefiting from responsibly developed AI-based tools every day – but the speed of technological advancement is accelerating, and while it’s exhilarating to see these breakthroughs, it’s important that we get it right here in Kenya,” she added.

This year, searches for courses in virtual help (+450%), data analysis (+200%), digital marketing (+200%), and cybersecurity (+100%) have all climbed significantly.

“We’re committed to working boldly, responsibly, and together with Kenya to maximize the potential of AI, while minimizing its abuse,” she stated.

“The trends, released today, also show that people in Kenya are increasingly interested in building their careers and learning new skills.”