Ambassador Philip Thigo

Special Envoy on Technology, Republic of Kenya

Ambassador Philip Thigo, MBS, is Kenya’s pioneering Special Envoy on Technology and a globally recognized leader in digital transformation and tech policy. Appointed in March 2024, he holds the distinction of being Africa’s first technology ambassador, representing a new paradigm in diplomatic engagement with the digital economy and emerging technologies.

Ambassador Thigo’s remarkable journey from growing up in Kibera, one of Nairobi’s largest informal settlements, to becoming a global technology leader exemplifies his commitment to inclusive digital transformation. He holds a Master’s in Global Management from the prestigious Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University, where he also served as the founding Executive Director for Africa.

His extensive international experience spans over two decades working with private sector organizations, governments, and multilateral institutions across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Before his ambassadorial appointment, he held senior positions including Senior Director for Africa at Thunderbird School of Global Management and has been instrumental in developing digital governance frameworks across multiple countries.

Ambassador Thigo is internationally recognized as one of the World’s 100 Most Influential People in Digital Government by Apolitical and ranks among the top 100 globally in Artificial Intelligence. He received Mozilla’s RISE25 Award as one of five advocates leading AI development and is consistently featured among Africa’s top 100 leaders in digital communications.

His areas of expertise include digital transformation strategy, AI governance, technology policy development, and fostering public-private partnerships for digital inclusion. Ambassador Thigo is passionate about ensuring that technological advancement serves human development, particularly in emerging economies, making him a vital voice in global tech diplomacy forums.