Aasai

Cabinet Secretary for ICT and the Digital Economy, William Kabogo, has underscored the critical importance and thegoodness of using Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a tool for inclusive growth and opportunity in recent days. Speaking in Nairobi during the opening session of a consultative seminar on "Harnessing Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity for Security, Cooperation and Resilience," Kabogo urged that AI must serve as a bridge to opportunity rather than a factor that deepens the digital divide.

Organised by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) under its Security Sector Programme, the seminar drew participation from regional leaders and experts in digital innovation and cybersecurity. The CS called on stakeholders to ensure that AI is developed and deployed in a manner that places people at its centre and upholds ethical standards.

“As we explore the vast potential of AI, we must keep people at the centre of our efforts,” Kabogo stated. “Technology must not deepen inequalities. AI should not become the next digital divide—it must be a bridge to opportunity.”

Kabogo emphasized that Kenya is intentional in ensuring inclusivity in its digital transformation journey. He reiterated that the government is focused on empowering all citizens, particularly vulnerable and often overlooked groups such as women, youth, and marginalized communities.

“In Kenya, we are deliberate about ensuring that no one is left behind. Our digital transformation strategy is designed to empower all Kenyans. We are championing Afro-centric and ethical AI that aligns with our constitutional values, human rights frameworks, and the social norms of our people,” he added.

The Cabinet Secretary also pointed out that countries in the IGAD bloc are bound by a shared vision of digital transformation. This vision, he said, is already changing how governments deliver public services, how businesses operate, and how citizens engage with technology.

However, Kabogo acknowledged that while digital growth brings numerous opportunities, it also introduces significant risks. These, he stressed, require innovative approaches and strong regional collaboration to address.

“Digital technologies have become foundational to economic development, governance, national security, and social integration. AI is no longer a thing of the future—it is influencing every aspect of our lives today,” he said.

He advocated for harmonized cybersecurity frameworks across the region, calling for the development of interoperable digital systems and real-time collaboration for cyber incident response and intelligence sharing.

Citing Kenya’s recent milestones, Kabogo highlighted the 2025 launch of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2025–2030). The strategy, he said, lays out a comprehensive, ethical, and inclusive approach to building a robust AI ecosystem in Kenya.

He noted that the impact of AI in kenya is already evident in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, and digital governance. According to Kabogo, these advancements are helping to streamline public service delivery, improve health outcomes, enhance food security, and modernize governance frameworks.

In conclusion,Cs  Kabogo called for continued regional cooperation, ethical AI development, and investments in secure digital infrastructure to ensure that technology serves as a catalyst for shared prosperity and resilience across the IGAD region.