Safaricom Decode 4.0 kicks off at Sarit Expo Centre in Nairobi with over 9,000 attendees exploring the Age of Intelligent Systems, featuring live AI gaming demos.

The Sarit Expo Centre has been transformed into a high-tech hub for the opening day of Safaricom Decode 4.0. This year’s summit marks a milestone as the company celebrates 25 years of operation in Kenya.

The event, themed "The Age of Intelligent Systems," has moved away from the feel of a standard corporate conference. Instead, it has taken on the energy of a tech-cultural festival.

Safaricom Decode 4.0 Event at Sarit Centre // Courtesy

A Massive Turnout for the "Mbogi"

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By mid-morning, the halls were already packed. Organisers reported a massive turnout, with over 9,000 physical attendees moving through the venue. The crowd is a diverse mix of Kenya’s digital ecosystem.

You can see software engineers in "Route ni 4.0" hoodies huddled over glowing laptops. Nearby, industry founders and policymakers in suits discuss the future of the "Intelligent Finance Grid."

Safaricom Decode 4.0 at Sarit Centre // Courtesy

Where Gaming Meets Street Style

A significant portion of the crowd consists of young Gen Z creators. These attendees are drawn to the "Intelligent Creative Engine" track. Many are sporting bold, urban street styles that reflect the "Made of Kenya" theme of the summit.

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Interactive booths are a major draw. Large groups have gathered to watch live demonstrations from Baze and Usiku Games.

There are also high-energy displays of AI-generated gaming assets, showing how artificial intelligence is changing the local creative industry.

The Signature Green Glow

The entire space is bathed in Safaricom’s signature green lighting. Sleek digital displays and "Intelligence" screens are positioned throughout the centre to provide a futuristic backdrop.

Outside of the formal sessions, the "Builders Banter" areas are busy. Here, developers and investors connect over coffee to discuss the demos they have just seen.

The event continues to showcase how Kenyan innovation is evolving. As Day 1 concludes, the focus remains on how these "intelligent systems" will practically impact the lives of Kenyans in the years to come.

The event runs from Tuesday March 31st up until 2nd of April.