By Ashley Kariuki
William Kabogo, the Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Information, Communications and Digital Economy (MICDE) reaffirmed his commitment to advancing digital transformation and fostering regional collaboration in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity, during a high-level seminar held in Nairobi under the theme ‘Harnessing Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity: Cooperation and Resilience’.
The seminar brought together delegates from IGAD partner States, diplomatic missions, and cybersecurity experts to address the growing opportunities and risks posed by rapid digital adoption across the region.
Opening the forum, Hon.William kabogo emphasized the importance of collective regional action to counter emerging threats like cybercrime and AI misuse.
“There is rapid digital transformation across the region, with increased adoption of AI and digital technologies, which unfortunately also increases the risk of technological misuse,” Kabogo said.
“This calls for increased collaboration and the sharing of experiences among countries, ” he added.
Kenya used the platform to showcase President William Ruto’s ambitious digital transformation agenda, as outlined in the country’s 2022–2032 National Digital Master Plan.
Flagship projects include the development of a 100,000-kilometre digital superhighway, nationwide digital skilling initiatives, and the establishment of digital hubs to promote inclusivity and innovation.
Additionally, Kenya’s 2025–2030 AI Strategy was presented as a blueprint for ethical and responsible AI development, with a focus on transforming critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and governance.
The Kenyan delegation called for the creation of unified cybersecurity frameworks, secure regional data exchange platforms, and joint training programs.
A proposal was made for the formation of regional AI and cybersecurity research centres, linked to universities and academic institutions across IGAD member States.
“We must act together to safeguard our digital future. No nation can do it alone,” the official stressed, underscoring Kenya’s support for IGAD’s mission to build a secure, resilient, and technologically empowered region.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were IGAD Executive Director H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, Norway’s Ambassador to Kenya H.E. Gunnar Andreas Holm, IGAD Security Sector Program Head Mrs. Nejat Abdulrahman, and representatives from IGAD member countries.
The seminar concluded with a renewed call for unity, innovation, and cooperation to shape a secure and inclusive digital landscape for the region.