Ambassador Philip Thigo, MBS, is an award-winning technology, public policy expert and thought leader who has significantly contributed to leveraging technology for social and economic development globally.

Currently, Ambassador Thigo serves as the Special Envoy on Technology for the Republic of Kenya. In 2023, he was appointed by the United Nations Secretary-General to the UN High-Level Advisory Board on Artificial Intelligence (HLAB). Professionally he was the founding director for Africa for the Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University and has previously worked in international organizations, the United Nations, foundations and start up ecosystem in Africa, Middle East and Asia. Early in his career, Ambassador Thigo co-founded the Budget Tracking Tool and Huduma, initiatives aimed at promoting government transparency and accountability. He also co-created Uchaguzi with Ushahidi, a platform designed to monitor elections and enhance citizen engagement.

In recognition of his efforts, he was acknowledged by Apolitical in 2018 as one of the World's 100 Most Influential People in Digital Government. In 2023, AfricaCom named him among Africa's Top 100 Most Influential Leaders in Technology and Telecommunications. In August 2024, Amb. Thigo was globally recognized by Mozilla under their RISE25 Award as one of five advocates leading the development of artificial intelligence ethically, inclusively, and transparently.

On December 12, 2023, during Kenya's 60th Independence Day Anniversary, he was awarded a Presidential Commendation—the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (M.B.S)—for his distinguished service to the country.