Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for ICT, William Kabogo, has urged Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) member states to work collaboratively in addressing the rising risks posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity threats in the digital age.
Speaking during the opening of a high-level regional seminar themed ‘Harnessing Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity: Cooperation and Resilience’, Kabogo emphasized the urgent need for shared strategies and frameworks to counter the misuse of emerging technologies.
“There is rapid digital transformation and increased adoption of AI across the region, but with it comes the heightened risk of technological misuse,” Kabogo said. “No nation can confront this alone—cooperation is critical.”
The forum, which brought together delegates from IGAD partner states, diplomatic representatives, and ICT experts, served as a platform to discuss regional preparedness and policy alignment in the face of growing digital vulnerabilities.
Kabogo spotlighted Kenya’s leadership in digital innovation, citing President William Ruto’s 2022–2032 National Digital Master Plan, which includes a 100,000-kilometre digital fibre optic superhighway, digital hubs, and digital skills training initiatives.
He also outlined the country’s 2025–2030 National AI Strategy, which aims to position Kenya as a continental leader in ethical AI deployment across sectors such as education, health, and governance.
The Cabinet Secretary proposed the creation of regional platforms for secure data exchange, joint cybersecurity training, and the establishment of interconnected AI and cybersecurity research hubs within academic institutions.
“We must build real-time intelligence sharing frameworks and unified cybersecurity protocols to protect our digital borders,” he said, reaffirming Kenya’s commitment to IGAD’s mission for a secure and inclusive digital future.
Also present at the seminar were IGAD Executive Secretary Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, Norway’s Ambassador to Kenya H.E. Gunnar Andreas Holm, Head of IGAD’s Security Sector Program Mrs. Nejat Abdulrahman, and other regional representatives.
