Kenya’s journey towards embracing Artificial Intelligence (AI) must begin with proper records management, according to Joseph Busiega, the Chief of Staff, Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary.
Speaking during the 10th Kenya Association of Records Managers Archivists (KARMA) Annual Records Management Conference in Mombasa, Busiega said reliable records are essential in building public trust, promoting accountability and improving government services as the country prepares to embrace AI.
The conference brings together records and information management professionals to mark 10 years of KARMA while discussing the changing role of their profession in the digital age.
“Public service transformation does not begin with technology; it begins with trust. And trust is built on reliable, well-managed records that citizens, auditors and future generations can depend on,” Busiega said.
He added that although AI offers new opportunities, its success depends on the quality of information used.
“Every AI system is only as reliable as the records and data that feed it. A government that wishes to deploy AI responsibly must first ensure that its records are AI-ready - accurate, complete, well classified, secure and trustworthy,” he said.
Drawing inspiration from William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, he encouraged delegates to take advantage of the opportunities presented by technological change.
“There is a tide in the affairs of men, which taken at the flood leads on to fortune,” he noted, adding that governments around the world are working on how to use AI responsibly, and that Kenya is also developing an Artificial Intelligence Bill through a Private Member’s Bill.
Buseiga said proper records management goes beyond keeping documents, as it also helps protect citizens’ rights, promote transparency and ensure that public institutions are accountable.
He pointed to the Access to Information Act 2016, the Data Protection Act 2019, and the Public Archives and Documentation Service Act Cap. 19, as important laws guiding the management of information in the country.
He called on records management professionals to take an active role in shaping policies and laws that will guide the use of AI and protect public information.
“Records and information management professionals must therefore be actively involved in shaping policies and legislation that will ensure that artificial intelligence and digital innovation do strengthen accountability, protect rights and build public trust,” he added.
He also stressed the need for cooperation between the government, private sector, learning institutions and professional bodies such as KARMA to ensure that the country is prepared for the changes brought by AI.
He assured delegates that the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary is following the discussions closely and remains committed to working with KARMA to strengthen records management in public service.
As KARMA celebrates its 10th anniversary, Busiega challenged delegates to share ideas, learn from one another and develop practical solutions that will help Kenya prepare for the future of AI.
