NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenya reinforced its leadership on the global stage in the ethical and responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in defence and security during the Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Military Domain (REAIM) Summit 2026 held in A Coruña, Spain.
The summit, attended by ministers, military leaders, and experts from around the world, focused on ensuring that AI strengthens international peace, security, human dignit,y and the rule of law.
At the ministerial meeting on the sidelines of the two‑day summit, Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya shared Kenya’s approach to responsible AI in the defence sector, underscoring that the technology must reinforce, not undermine, global peace and ethical standards.
“AI must strengthen, never undermine, international peace & security, human dignity and the rule of law,” said Tuya, reiterating Kenya’s commitment to shaping global responsible AI frameworks and ethical use in military applications.
Today’s ministerial meeting of the REAIM Summit 2026 in A Coruña, Spain, where we shared our approach to responsible AI in defence and security. Our message: AI must strengthen, never undermine, international peace & security, human dignity and the rule of law.Kenya has taken a
Kenya’s Global Role in AI Governance
Kenya has taken on significant roles in international AI policy development.
The country serves on the United Nations Secretary‑General’s High‑Level Advisory Body on AI and has co‑sponsored key UN General Assembly resolutions on safe and trustworthy AI.
Kenya also participated in crafting the first UNGA resolutions on responsible AI in military settings, reflecting its commitment to inclusive, human‑centred policy engagement.
These diplomatic engagements build on Kenya’s active role in crafting global and regional AI governance frameworks that advance ethical standards, transparency and accountability in emerging defence technologies.
Regional Leadership and National Commitments
In August 2025, Kenya hosted the second Africa Regional REAIM Consultations, bringing together representatives from 17 African nations to ensure the continent’s voice and perspectives are integrated into global AI governance discussions.
This marked a major step in ensuring Africa is an active architect of responsible AI policies rather than a passive observer.
Domestically, Kenya has strengthened policy foundations for AI through the launch of the National AI Strategy 2025–2030, which provides a roadmap to ensure that AI development supports inclusive socio‑economic progress while upholding ethical standards and human rights.
The strategy aligns with national development goals and positions Kenya as a regional hub for responsible AI innovation.
Bilateral Cooperation and Broader Engagements
On the sidelines of the summit, Kenya also reaffirmed defence and maritime security cooperation with host nation Spain, highlighting shared interests in maritime security, naval training, cybersecurity, and collaborative work on emerging technologies, including responsible AI applications.
Kenya’s engagement at REAIM Summit 2026 reflects a broader push by many nations — even as some major powers opt out of specific AI governance declarations — to establish frameworks that balance rapid technological adoption with robust ethical and legal principles.
