Nairobi, Kenya- Artificial Intelligence should be a tool for empowerment—not another wedge of inequality—according to ICT and Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo.
Speaking at a high-level seminar in Nairobi, Kabogo urged regional leaders to center people, not just innovation, in AI development.
“As we explore the vast potential of AI, we must keep people at the centre of our efforts,” Kabogo told attendees at the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) seminar on Harnessing Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity for Security, Cooperation and Resilience.
“Technology must not deepen inequalities. AI should not become the next digital divide—it must be a bridge to opportunity.”
That line—“a bridge to opportunity”—could easily double as the mission statement for Kenya’s tech-forward digital policy, which Kabogo says is intentionally inclusive.
“Our digital transformation is designed to empower all Kenyans, particularly women, youth, and marginalised communities,” he said, reinforcing that Kenya champions an Afro-centric and ethical approach to artificial intelligence that reflects constitutional values and human rights.
The seminar, hosted in Nairobi under IGAD’s Security Sector Programme, brought together policymakers and cybersecurity experts across member states.
Kabogo emphasized that while the region’s digital shift is transforming public services, business models, and citizen engagement, it also introduces new risks.
“Artificial Intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept—it is reshaping how we live, work, and relate,” Kabogo said.
“We must now focus on harmonising cybersecurity frameworks, creating interoperable digital protocols, and building trust-based mechanisms for real-time intelligence sharing and cyber incident response.”
He added that Kenya’s recent tech milestones include the rollout of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2025–2030), which provides a roadmap for ethical, inclusive, and secure AI adoption.
According to Kabogo, the benefits are already visible. From improving public health to enhancing agricultural systems and streamlining digital governance, AI is finding real-world traction in Kenya.
And while challenges in cybersecurity, regulation, and capacity persist, Kabogo says the region can’t afford to be reactive. “We are living in an era where digital technologies have become essential to economic growth, governance, national security, and social cohesion,” he said.
