20 June 2025, Nairobi-Kenya: IGAD Security Sector Program (IGAD SSP) successfully concluded a Regional Consultative Seminar on Harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Cybersecurity for Security, Cooperation, and Resilience on 18-20 June 2025 in Nairobi, Kenya. The event brought together delegates from IGAD Member States, regional institutions, private sector innovators, and experts.
The seminar opened with a call to action from IGAD Executive Secretary, H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, who emphasized the urgency of regional collaboration in addressing rising digital threats. He underlined that as the IGAD region undergoes a rapid digital transformation, its security sector must be equally united to confront new vulnerabilities and transnational cyber threats. The opening session also featured remarks from Hon. William Kabogo, Cabinet Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy of the Republic of Kenya, the Norwegian Ambassador to Kenya as development partner, and Mrs. Nejat Abdulrahman, Head of the IGAD Security Sector Program.
On the first day, they examined the complex landscape of AI-enabled threats and cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Delegates delved into AI’s role in shaping the future of security, the risks associated with emerging technologies, and the cross-border nature of cybercrime. Sessions explored predictive policing, surveillance systems, intelligence-sharing mechanisms, and ethical considerations in the deployment of AI in law enforcement.Participants were introduced to the practical applications of AI in incident response and digital forensics, highlighting both the strengths and limitations of current forensic tools and automated systems.
The second day focused on the theme “Towards Harmonized AI and Cybersecurity Governance.” Participants explored the legal, ethical, and policy frameworks needed to guide the safe development and deployment of AI systems. Presentations shared insights into national policies across Member States and international good practices. In parallel, the seminar addressed the critical human dimension: how to close capacity gaps and invest in training for a digitally competent security workforce. Discussions centered around building institutional resilience, integrating AI into national security strategies, and fostering digital literacy at all levels. A notable session emphasized the importance of building a regional AI ecosystem, where collaboration between research institutions, academia, and regulatory bodies is essential. The day concluded with a dynamic group reflection on shaping a shared regional agenda for AI and cybersecurity—one that prioritises trust, responsible innovation, and policy harmonisation.
The final day, themed “Action-Oriented Engagement for Digital Security,” emphasized partnerships and strategic vision. One of the standout sessions focused on public-private sector collaboration, with experts discussing how tech firms, startups, and innovators can support governments in strengthening cyber resilience across critical infrastructure.
Delegates were then introduced to the latest advances in machine learning, blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), biometric authentication, and quantum computing. Practical use cases and lessons from the field offered a glimpse into how these technologies can be harnessed to bolster regional security and resilience. The seminar culminated in a forward-looking discussion on strategic policy interventions and the development of a regional roadmap. Delegates jointly outlined a vision for an integrated AI and cybersecurity governance architecture, identifying shared priorities and actionable steps for both national and regional implementation.
In closing, Dr. Workneh reaffirmed IGAD’s commitment to turning the seminar’s deliberations into a practical agenda for action. Mrs. Nejat Abdulrahman echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the conversations held in Nairobi mark only the beginning of IGAD’s efforts to build a trusted, secure, and resilient digital future.
The Seminar concluded with virtual remarks from H.E. Dr. Workneh, IGAD Executive Secretary, and Mrs Nejat Abdulrahman. IGAD is committed to working towards the realisation of the Nairobi recommendations reached today by the Member States’ Delegates. Supported by the Government of Norway, the consultative seminar laid the foundation for stronger cooperation, enhanced legal and institutional frameworks, and cross-sector partnerships that can collectively safeguard the region’s digital transformation journey. This Seminar reaffirmed IGAD’s role as a convener of strategic dialogue and a driver of regional resilience in the digital age. (END)
Media coverage of the event from leading regional outlets, including KBC, Citizen TV, NTV Kenya, The Standard, People Daily, and Eye Radio (South Sudan) as follows.
- https://www.kenyanews.go.ke/kenya-backs-regional-ai-compact-as-igad-warns-of-widening-cyber-threats/