Mitsumi invests $2 million to power Kenya’s AI future

Technology distributor Mitsumi is investing $2 million in artificial intelligence cloud platform designed to give young Kenyan innovators the tools, space and opportunity to compete on the global technology stage.

Mitsumi Distribution Co-founder and Managing Director, Mitesh Shah, said the investment is more than a technology project; it is meant to unlock the potential of the country’s youth.

“The AI cloud we are putting up is around $2 million. This is mostly CSR from Mitsumi’s side so that most of our educated youths can utilize it for different things,” Mitesh Shah explained.

The platform will allow local developers to build and test software, experiment with AI solutions and connect to international technology markets without the heavy costs usually associated with global cloud infrastructure.

According to the tech firm, many talented young Kenyans are being left behind not because of a lack of skills, but because they cannot afford access to advanced digital tools and computing power.

“So many youths are well educated to do something good, but because of cost and affordability, they are not getting good exposure,” said Jagat Shah Chairman and CEO, Mitsumi Distribution.

Mitsumi says it has already hired more than 50 young people within its AI division, where they are working on research, product development and digital solutions.

The company believes Kenya’s growing pool of tech-savvy youth places the country in a strong position to become a regional hub for artificial intelligence and software innovation.

“Kenyan youth possess exceptional technical talent and a strong understanding of software development. What has been missing is greater access to platforms and infrastructure that can help them innovate, scale and compete globally,” Jagat said.

The firm also welcomed the government’s ongoing efforts to develop an AI policy framework, saying clear regulation and ethical use of artificial intelligence would create an environment where innovation can thrive responsibly.

The company added that locally developed AI solutions could play a major role in improving healthcare, education and access to essential services, particularly in underserved and remote communities.

The investment comes at a time when Kenya’s digital economy is attracting growing attention from both government and private sector players, with increased focus on AI, digital infrastructure and technology training as the country positions itself for the future economy.