Demographics of eligible voters in Kenya is youthful as 70% of Kenya’s current population is under the age of 25. Political decisions tend to be based on lived experience and material conditions, but there is no doubt that information from trends on social media, and ideas generated using AI and predictive analytics, could shape political decisions.
As The Youth Cafe, we are excited to be part of a high-level conversation on how AI and Big Data amplify youth voter engagement in Kenya. The session resonated with our current focus on “Digitalisation and Youth Participation”.
It is imperative for all states to participate in the development of guidelines for the ethical use of AI and Big data. National, regional, and international bodies governing the ethical and responsible political use of AI and Big data should be established and empowered to ensure regulatory oversight and accountability. Election governance frameworks should include guidelines on voter and candidate education, electoral management body (EMB) personnel training, media training, and dealing with AI and Big Data associated challenges.
It is highly likely that the use of Big Data technologies to micro-target voters may further empower well-resourced political parties and increase inequality within countries.
This would in turn widen turnout gaps and undermine engagement with groups of voters who are often missed or ignored by registration and voter mobilisation campaigns.
Thus, TYC is developing a youth playback for AI in elections, with an emphasis on youth and AI literacy for all. The Youth Cafe is working together to ensure policy development and widespread education on AI. Customized educational content is required for young people. Catering to contextual realities such as local languages and methods of information dissemination.
Partaking in processes leading up to the adoption of a Global Digital Compact is essential for consolidating worldwide scientific consensus on AI’s potential, risks, and challenges.
Therefore, African stakeholders should engage strategically with the “Governing AI for humanity” agenda which is being led by the United Nations (UN). Further robust engagement and participation in platforms which focus on AI for political good is essential for information sharing, partnership building, and gaining insights on what to prioritise and invest in.
Underscoring the invaluable role of technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and Big Data in increased citizens’ participation in elections thereby potentially addressing Low Youth Political Participation. By leveraging these tools, we aim to rejuvenate youth voter interest and amplify their engagement in public life, thereby guaranteeing economic stability.. Artificial intelligence (AI) and technology can help address voter apathy, especially among African youth, but cannot take the place of substantive policy solutions
The Youth Cafe is developing a model for AI-Driven Youth Voter Education: aiming to Customize voter education materials using AI, particularly with adaptive learning technologies.
Incorporating AI into Kenyan electoral processes can enhance the effectiveness of youth-centered activities, making them more inclusive, culturally sensitive, and accessible to a broader range of the youth electorate.
The integration of AI offers a chance to overcome linguistic diversity and cultural nuances, enhancing electoral effectiveness and inclusivity. However, these advancements depend on overcoming technological limitations and ensuring cultural and linguistic appropriateness, a task that requires human oversight and collaboration with AI leaders like OpenAI and Google.
The session is to take place in Nairobi on 7 March during the Peoples Dialogue Festival 2024.
Contact us: info@theyouthcafe.com