Experts Oppose 2023 Robotics and AI Society Bill in Kenya

The 2023 Robotics and AI Society Bill, designed to regulate the expanding fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics in Kenya, faces staunch opposition from industry insiders.

Professionals in Information Technology (IT) and experts from the American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM) have expressed significant objections, recommending that Parliament dismiss the proposed regulation.

Challenges Highlighted in Bill Critique

On International Safer Internet Day, a group of IT specialists in Kenya, along with the AMCHAM representative, presented their concerns to the National Assembly’s Communication, Information, and Innovation (CII) committee. As reported by local publication Business Daily, they identified major shortcomings in the bill, criticizing its failure to engage with stakeholders from the AI and robotics sectors during its development.

Proposed Legislation and Mandatory Registration

The Kenya Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Society Bill 2023 introduces mandatory registration with the newly proposed Robotics Society of Kenya (RSK) for all entities. Failure to comply carries a penalty of KES 1 million (approximately USD 6,000), a two-year imprisonment term, or both.

Focus on AI Industry Neglected

Experts have raised concerns that the legislation disproportionately focuses on the robotics industry, overlooking crucial aspects of artificial intelligence. They have highlighted the risk of legal challenges due to the bill’s inadequate drafting and called for its withdrawal to facilitate further dialogue with industry stakeholders.

Challenges in Kenya’s AI Sector

Concerns have also been raised regarding Kenya’s position in the AI sector, ranking fifth in Africa. Despite significant investment in AI over the past decade, Kenya still lags behind countries like South Africa and Nigeria, according to reports from Microsoft.

Additional Hurdles and Lack of Oversight

Elizabeth Mutua, a faculty member at the Dedan Kimathi School of Computer Science, pointed out additional challenges, including the absence of public data sets for AI development and the lack of a legal framework to regulate AI and robotics in the country.

Industry Voices Concerns

AI Kenya, an independent initiative promoting data science and robotics growth, described the bill as a significant obstacle to innovation and development in the tech ecosystem. This sentiment reflects broader industry concerns that the proposed regulations could stifle innovation within Kenya’s thriving technology sector.

Commitment to Stakeholder Engagement

In response to mounting opposition, Dagoreti South Member of Parliament John Kiarie, chair of the CII committee, assured stakeholders that their feedback would be considered during the bill’s public consultation phase. As Kenya navigates the delicate balance between regulation and innovation in the AI and robotics field, the fate of the proposed bill remains uncertain.