By John Kariuki
Kenya has called on countries within the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to unite in building stronger defenses against emerging cybersecurity threats and the potential misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Speaking this morning while opening a high-level seminar themed ‘Harnessing Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity, Cooperation, and Resilience’, Cabinet Secretary for Trade Hon. William Kabogo emphasized the need for cross-border collaboration and shared strategies to confront the escalating digital risks sweeping across the region.
The forum, which brings together IGAD partner States, is a timely response to the rapid digital transformation taking place across the Horn of Africa. While advances in AI and digital technology offer immense opportunities to improve governance, revolutionize business, and uplift communities, they also expose the region to new and complex cyber threats that no country can tackle alone.
Hon. Kabogo highlighted Kenya’s aggressive digital transformation roadmap as outlined in the 2022–2032 National Digital Master Plan. The plan includes the roll-out of a 100,000-kilometre fibre optic digital superhighway, the creation of digital hubs across the country, and large-scale digital skills training programs aimed at equipping Kenyans with the competencies required to thrive in the digital age.
In addition, the CS for Trade spotlighted Kenya’s 2025–2030 Artificial Intelligence Strategy, which positions the country as a continental leader in ethical AI deployment. The strategy prioritizes the responsible use of AI to drive significant advancements in education, healthcare, and public administration.
Calling for the establishment of unified cybersecurity frameworks across the region, Hon. Kabogo proposed the creation of real-time intelligence-sharing platforms, regional data exchange mechanisms, and joint training programs. He further recommended the formation of regional networks of AI and cybersecurity research centres, closely linked to universities and academic institutions.
Kenya, Hon. Kabogo reaffirmed, is fully committed to IGAD’s mission of promoting a safer, smarter digital future through mutual cooperation and resilience-building.
Present at the seminar were IGAD Executive Director H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, Norway’s Ambassador to Kenya H.E. Gunnar Andreas Holm, Head of the IGAD Security Sector Program Mrs. Nejat Abdulrahman, and representatives from IGAD partner States among other key stakeholders.
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