Kenya’s Ambassador Phillip Thigo, MBS, the country’s Special Envoy on Technology, has earned global recognition after being named to the Government AI 100: 2026, an international list curated by Apolitical that honours public sector leaders shaping the future of responsible artificial intelligence.
This recognition puts Amb. Phillip Thigo’s AI governance work among the most influential in the world and underscores the rising influence of Kenya in shaping ethical and people-centered AI policies and guidelines.
Recognition celebrates top government leaders who work to advance responsible AI adoption and capacity building in the interest of the greater good.
According to Apolitical, the list features policymakers and regulators who are strengthening public institutions and ensuring AI delivers equitable and meaningful benefits. Ambassador Thigo’s inclusion signals Kenya’s emergence as a respected voice in global AI governance conversations.
Influence of Ambassador Phillip Thigo in International Governance for Artificial Intelligence
Ambassador Phillip Thigo Artificial Intelligence leadership has been evident through the Kenyan representation in various international forums. During the Seventh United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7), the country played a key role in the passage of the first-ever resolution asserting the regulation of artificial intelligence in relation to environmental sustainability.
In addition to matters related to the environment, the ambassador’s efforts in the WSIS+20 Review (World Summit on the Information Society + 20 Review) have seen him play an important role in the dialogue related to digital transformation, building the capacities of countries, and the use of new technologies to support the achievement of sustainable development goals.
He has also played an important role in promoting the Global Digital Compact (GDC), supporting bodies like the Global Dialogue Mechanism on Artificial Intelligence and the Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence, which are working towards creating a foundation for collective and evidence-based governance on AI.
Being mentioned among global leaders like the UN Secretary General’s Envoy on Technology, Amandeep Singh Gill, and the UAE’s Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Omar Sultan Al Olama, is an affirmation of Ambassador Phillip’s AI governance leadership and the growing stature of the Republic of Kenya.
Ambassador Response to Government AI 100 Recognition
On receiving the award, Ambassador Thigo acknowledged the honor, stating: “This is not what one person has accomplished, but what we have all achieved together.”
“I’m deeply honoured to be recognised by Apolitical in the Government AI 100 – 2026, a list that celebrates public servants around the world who are pioneering the responsible adoption, regulation, and capacity building of artificial intelligence in government,” he said.
“It is not only my personal achievement but embodies the hard work of visionary public servants and partners whom I count it a great honour to collaborate with,” said Ambassador Thigo. “AI truly holds tremendous potential in revolutionising public service delivery, but it should always remain ethical, human-oriented, and equitable.”
Ambassador Thigo also thanked Apolitical for spotlighting public leadership in AI governance, saying the platform plays a critical role in ensuring emerging technologies serve humanity.
“My heartfelt thanks to Apolitical for championing the role of public leadership in shaping the future of AI in government, and for highlighting those of us committed to ensuring this technology serves humanity,” he added.
Kenya’s Vision on AI Receives World Support
This award is greatly aligned with the digital and economic vision that has been envisioned by President Ruto’s government, whereby artificial intelligence is set to act as an impetus for economic development, employment, and delivery.
While the world is in a rush to leverage the potential offered by AI, AI governorship recognition by Ambassador Phillip Thigo is a sign of the world’s increasing confidence in the leadership role played by Kenya. The award solidifies the position of Kenya in the establishment of the AI framework, while African ideologies remain key in the discussion.
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