ICT and Digital Economy CS William Kabogo has said that Artificial Intelligence must be used as a bridge to opportunities.
Speaking at the opening session of the a consultative Seminar on Harnessing Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity for Security, Cooperation and Resilience in Nairobi, Kabogo said that it should not in any way to deepen inequalities or a digital divide.
He also insisted that the people must be at the centre of these innovations.
“As we explore the vast potential of AI, we must keep people at the centre of our efforts. Technology must not deepen inequalities. AI should not become the next digital divide—it must be a bridge to opportunity,” Kabogo said.
The seminar was organised by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), under its Security Sector Programme.
He went on to say that Kenya’s digital transformation is designed to empower all.
“In Kenya, we are intentional about inclusivity. Our digital transformation is designed to empower all Kenyans, particularly women, youth, and marginalised communities. We champion Afro-centric and ethical AI, aligned with our constitutional values, human rights, and social norms.”
The Cabinet Secretary noted that IGAD member states are united by a shared digital transformation journey—one that is rapidly changing how governments deliver services, how businesses operate, and how our citizens interact.
He said this comes with greater risks, which can only be solved by innovation, even as he called for harmonisation of cybersecurity frameworks, development of interoperable digital protocols, and building trust-based mechanisms for real-time intelligence sharing and cyber incident response.
“We are living in an era where digital technologies have become essential to economic growth, governance, national security, and social cohesion. Artificial Intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept—it is reshaping how we live, work, and relate,” Kabogo said.
“Here in Kenya, under the leadership of President William Ruto, we have placed digital transformation at the heart of our national development agenda.”
Kabogo said earlier on in 2025, the government launched Kenya’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2025– 2030) that provides a structured, ethical, and inclusive approach to building a responsible AI ecosystem.
He said AI’s transformative impact is already being seen in agriculture, education, public health, and digital governance.
