Athletics Kenya Introduces AI-Powered Talent Scouting App ScoutAI

Athletics Kenya (AK) rolled out ScoutAI—a mobile app using AI to identify running talent in schools and villages—on August 1, 2025. Developed with Strathmore University and Intel, the app analyzes video uploads of 1km time trials (submitted by teachers/coaches), assessing stride efficiency, cadence, and recovery metrics. Over 42,000 students were screened in the first month; 217 high-potential athletes (62% girls) invited to regional camps. No child should be missed because they’re in Turkana, not Iten, said AK CEO David Okeyo. The system flags biomechanical risks to prevent injuries early. Safaricom zero-rated the app, and UNICEF integrated it into its *Sport for Development* program. Pilot data showed a 40% increase in rural athlete recruitment vs. 2024.