President William Ruto has said Kenya could partner with Russia’s largest financial group, Sberbank, to use artificial intelligence (AI) to improve healthcare and education services.
The President made the announcement after touring SberCity, a smart-city development on the outskirts of Moscow, where he explored how technology and integrated urban planning could inform Kenya’s development agenda.
In a statement shared on X, Ruto said Sberbank was ready to work with Kenya to harness AI in public services, potentially expanding access to quality healthcare and education.
“Was particularly encouraged by Sberbank Group’s readiness to partner with Kenya in harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI) to transform healthcare and education,” he said.
The President did not disclose details of a formal agreement, funding commitments or a timeline for implementing the proposed partnership.
The visit comes as Kenya seeks to attract Russian investment and expand cooperation in technology, digital innovation and technology transfer during the Third Russia-Africa Economic and Humanitarian Forum in Moscow.
Ruto said the smart-city development offered lessons for Kenya in urban planning, sustainable living and the use of technology in public service delivery.
SberCity covers approximately 461 hectares and is being developed to accommodate about 65,000 residents, with plans for office spaces, schools, healthcare facilities and green areas.
According to Sberbank’s published project information, the development is also expected to create about 70,000 jobs, alongside infrastructure designed to support an integrated urban community.
The President said Kenya could draw lessons from the project as it explores new approaches to housing, urban development and the delivery of public services.
The proposed AI partnership would add to Kenya’s efforts to strengthen its digital economy and improve the use of technology across key sectors.
However, the extent of Sberbank’s potential involvement in Kenya’s healthcare and education systems remains unclear, with further details needed on the projects under consideration and how they would be implemented.
The outcome of the discussions will depend on whether the proposed cooperation progresses into formal agreements and practical projects that deliver measurable benefits to Kenyans.
