Media personality Janet Mbugua has raised questions about how artificial intelligence (AI) is shaping the way children learn, interact and develop independent thinking.
In a post on social media on Thursday, October 8, 2026, the journalist noted that AI is increasingly becoming part of children’s everyday lives, making it easier for them to access information and get answers whenever they need them.
“AI never gets tired, never says ‘we’ll talk about it later’ and is wide awake at 2am, no wonder our children love it,” Janet stated.
Janet Mbugua challenges AI in childhood development
However, she questioned whether the technology could be teaching children faster than they are learning how to think for themselves.
Janet therefore encouraged parents and caregivers to consider how they can help children benefit from AI while still developing the ability to question, reason and think independently.
According to reports, Kenya has emerged as one of the top three artificial intelligence hubs in sub-Saharan Africa, anchored by the launch of the Kenya National AI Strategy 2025-2030.
Kenya National AI Strategy 2025-2030: was launched by the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy.
The framework positions the country as a regional leader through three core pillars: AI digital infrastructure, a sustainable data ecosystem, and cutting-edge R&D.
