Could AI Become the Biggest Weapon in Kenya’s 2027 Election? Experts Weigh In
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| Donatus Njoroge - Head of Innovations, Intellectual Property and Community Engagement at MKU |
The call was made by Donatus Njoroge, Head of Innovation, Intellectual Property and Community Engagement at Mount Kenya University (MKU), who warned that while AI presents enormous opportunities for learning, innovation and economic growth, it can also be misused to manipulate information and mislead the public.
Speaking at MKU following the university's recent success in international innovation competitions, Njoroge noted a growing trend in which some individuals are using AI-generated content to spread rumours, fabricate information and distort facts.
“Artificial Intelligence is one of the most powerful tools of our time, but like any technology, it can be used either positively or negatively. As we approach the election period, young people must be careful not to use AI to spread false information or manipulate public opinion. The technology should be used to solve problems, create opportunities and improve lives,” Njoroge said.
Njoroge encouraged students and young professionals to harness AI for research, innovation and entrepreneurship rather than using it irresponsibly on social media platforms.
He observed that the rapid advancement of AI has made it increasingly difficult for many people to distinguish between factual information, half-truths and deliberately fabricated content.
“The challenge today is that AI can create highly convincing images, videos and messages. If used irresponsibly, it can make it difficult for citizens to know what is true and what is false, especially during politically charged periods such as elections,” he said.
He added that MKU is actively equipping students with AI-related skills to help them develop innovative solutions, improve productivity and create employment opportunities at a time when many young Kenyans continue to face challenges securing formal jobs.
According to recent labour market reports, thousands of young people enter the job market every year, increasing the need for innovation-driven entrepreneurship and digital skills that can generate self-employment opportunities.
“Our focus is to ensure students understand how to use emerging technologies responsibly while also leveraging them to create jobs, build businesses and contribute to national development,” Njoroge said.
He further revealed that the university is working closely with government agencies, industry players and international partners to strengthen innovation and technology programmes for students.
The appeal comes in the wake of remarkable international achievements by MKU students who recently represented Kenya in global innovation competitions held in China and the United States.
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| Brian Ngugi - MKU student and Huawei ICT Global Finals winner in Shenzhen, China |
Ngugi expressed concern over the growing misuse of AI technologies, particularly in the creation of manipulated images, videos and misleading online content.
“Unfortunately, some people are using AI to alter images and spread misleading information. That is not what this technology was meant for. AI should be used to support learning, research, innovation and income-generating activities. It has the potential to transform lives if used responsibly,” he said.
He also called on the government to partner more closely with universities and technology institutions to promote digital literacy and responsible AI adoption among young people.
“There is a need for greater collaboration between government, universities and the private sector to ensure young people understand both the opportunities and responsibilities that come with AI,” Ngugi added.
Wesley Njenga - MKU student and Wege Prize 2026 winner in Michigan, USA
Another award-winning innovator, Wesley Njenga, recently gained international recognition after he and his teammates developed EcoScrubber, a hardware-based emission control and carbon-capture system that earned them the prestigious Wege Prize 2026 in Michigan, USA.
Njenga said AI and emerging technologies should be embraced as tools for industrial growth, environmental sustainability and economic transformation.
“Artificial Intelligence should not be feared. It should be embraced as a tool that can help industries become more efficient, solve environmental challenges and drive innovation,” he said.
He urged both county and national governments to increase support for youth-led innovations, noting that many promising ideas struggle to reach commercial viability due to limited funding and mentorship opportunities.
“Young people have brilliant ideas that can solve real challenges in our communities. What they need is support, investment and opportunities to turn those ideas into successful enterprises,” Njenga said.
As AI continues to reshape industries, education and communication worldwide, experts are increasingly calling for a balance between innovation and ethical use of technology. Equipping young people with both technical skills and digital responsibility will be crucial in ensuring that AI serves as a force for progress rather than a tool for misinformation.
With Kenya's election season drawing closer and AI-generated content becoming more sophisticated, the message from innovators and educators remains clear: technology should be used to empower society, create opportunities and advance development, not to spread confusion and falsehoods.
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