Safaricom Decode 4.0 brought together developers, policymakers, students, and tech innovators at Sarit Centre, turning the venue into a hub of discussions on artificial intelligence and Kenya’s digital future.

The three-day summit, organized by Safaricom, forms part of the company’s developer-driven initiative aimed at connecting communities with tools, platforms, and knowledge to support innovation.

Safaricom Decode 4.0 Event at Sarit Centre // Courtesy

A Gathering of Kenya’s Tech Ecosystem

The event attracted a wide mix of participants, including students, startup founders, engineers, and government officials. Organizers described the summit as a space designed to offer “real-world insight” into emerging technologies and the direction of the digital economy.

At the main auditorium, keynote sessions ran alongside builder labs, technical workshops, and “Sema na Experts” discussions, where attendees engaged directly with industry professionals. The summit also featured live demonstrations, networking sessions, and innovation showcases from technology partners.

According to event information, Decode 4.0 focused on artificial intelligence as the “core engine of intelligent systems,” alongside fintech, cloud computing, and creative technologies.

Safaricom Decode 4.0 Event at Sarit Centre // Courtesy

Officials Highlight AI and Digital Growth

Among the speakers was Stephen Isaboke, Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications, who addressed the role of AI in Kenya’s development.

He emphasized the need for inclusive access to artificial intelligence, noting that innovation should benefit all Kenyans and support sectors such as education, agriculture, and health. His remarks aligned with broader government efforts to promote digital transformation and responsible AI adoption.

ALSO READ: Nairobi’s Tech Scene Ignites as Safaricom Decode 4.0 Opens at Sarit Centre

Other speakers drawn from industry and policy circles spoke on infrastructure, digital skills, and the importance of partnerships between the public and private sectors in shaping Kenya’s tech landscape.

Safaricom Decode 4.0 Event at Sarit Centre // Courtesy

Youth Perspectives on Artificial Intelligence

Young attendees formed a significant portion of the audience, with many participating in coding labs and interactive sessions.

Discussions among youth participants centered on:

The use of AI in everyday tools such as chatbots and content creation
Opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship in AI-driven fields
Concerns about job displacement and the need for digital skills training

Some participants highlighted how AI tools are already being used in learning environments, including coding assistants, automated design platforms, and data analysis tools. Others pointed to the growing accessibility of global AI platforms, which are enabling young developers to build applications locally.

Hands-on sessions allowed students and early-career developers to experiment with building applications, reflecting the summit’s focus on practical learning through guided workshops known as CodeLabs.

Safaricom Decode 4.0 Event at Sarit Centre // Courtesy

AI Tools and Technologies on Display

Technology demonstrations at the event featured a range of AI-powered solutions. According to event coverage and partner showcases, some of the technologies presented included:

Cloud-based AI services and machine learning platforms
AI-powered chat and automation tools
Robotics and smart device integrations
Data analytics systems used in business and telecommunications

A walkthrough by officials included exposure to partner innovations such as AI systems developed by global firms, highlighting how international technology is being integrated into Kenya’s ecosystem.

Safaricom Decode 4.0 Event at Sarit Centre // Courtesy

Safaricom’s Role in Enabling Innovation

Safaricom positioned itself as a key enabler of Kenya’s digital transformation, providing the infrastructure that supports innovation.

Through its network, developer platforms, and digital services, the company described its role as offering the “rails” on which future technologies, including AI applications, can be built.

The summit also marked 25 years of Safaricom’s operations, with organizers linking the milestone to Kenya’s broader growth in connectivity and digital services.

Safaricom Decode 4.0 Event at Sarit Centre // Courtesy

A Platform for Collaboration

Decode 4.0 concluded its sessions with continued emphasis on collaboration across sectors. The event highlighted the importance of combining policy direction, private sector investment, and youth innovation to drive Kenya’s position as a regional technology hub.

With thousands of attendees and multiple sessions running concurrently, the Sarit Centre event reflected a growing interest in artificial intelligence and its role in shaping the country’s economic and technological future.