BY KAMAL KAUR
PHOTOS BY DHRUV SHAH
On 11th April, an interactive breakfast meeting brought together leading Kenyan CEOs to discuss the increasing prominence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its implications for business. The event, titled “Stewardship in the Era of Artificial Intelligence”, centred on strategies for embracing AI and capitalising on the evolving business landscape.
The discussions acknowledged the transformative role of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) as an enabler, noting the growing capacity for automation across numerous sectors, including professional services. Attendees explored methods for effectively leveraging this changing narrative to drive growth and efficiency.
Kamal Bhudhabatti emphasised the importance of prioritising user experience and delivering seamless customer service. He argued that product value extends beyond mere price, encompassing the entirety of the customer’s experience, which is significantly shaped by human behaviour. Bhudhabatti also stressed the necessity for businesses to demonstrate agility in leveraging and promoting their offerings to remain competitive.
Harrison Muiru underscored that AI is far more than a passing trend, characterising it as a disruptive force driving the Fourth Industrial Revolution. While acknowledging AI’s capacity to analyse business operations and provide valuable insights, he maintained that human skills and attributes, such as empathy, equity, and ethical considerations, remain indispensable. He argued that these qualities are crucial for responsible and effective AI implementation.
A lively and informative panel discussion, moderated by Vidya Jethwa and featuring panelists Duncan Njue, Dipanker A Dipanker, and Rogers Odima, further explored the practical applications of AI. The panellists highlighted that AI tools are most effectively used to augment existing knowledge and expertise. They also pointed to the potential of AI to enhance productivity by streamlining tasks, thereby freeing up human capital to focus on innovation and strategic development.
The meeting concluded with a consensus that AI presents significant opportunities for businesses in Kenya. However, it also stressed the importance of a balanced approach, one that integrates technological advancements with human capabilities to ensure sustainable and ethical progress. The emphasis was placed on proactive stewardship, with CEOs urged to take a leading role in shaping the responsible adoption of AI within their organisations and the broader economy.