Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the defence and security sectors, stressing that emerging technologies must be harnessed to promote peace, stability, and the protection of human dignity. Speaking at the Africa Regional Consultation on Responsible AI in the Military Domain (REAIM) in Nairobi, Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya emphasized the need for Africa to play an active role in shaping global frameworks for military AI. She highlighted Kenya’s AI Strategy 2030, which provides a roadmap for integrating AI into national development while safeguarding against misuse in sensitive areas such as defence.
The consultation brought together regional and international stakeholders, with contributions from the Netherlands, the Republic of Korea, and Spain, alongside support from the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR). Leaders underscored the importance of collaboration, shared responsibility, and the active involvement of civil society, academia, and youth in AI governance. Maj. Gen. Joyce Sitienei of the National Defence University-Kenya urged Africa to become an “active architect” of ethical frameworks for military AI while applauding Kenya Defence Forces and international partners for their role in organizing and supporting the forum.
International partners echoed Kenya’s leadership in advancing AI governance. Ambassadors from Korea, the Netherlands, and Spain highlighted AI’s potential in defence applications such as decision-making, logistics, and situational awareness, while warning of risks like loss of human control, disinformation, and erosion of trust. They emphasized that innovation must be accompanied by accountability to ensure AI contributes positively to global peace and security. Spain further announced that it will host the third global REAIM Summit later this year, providing another platform to translate agreed principles into concrete global actions.
The Nairobi consultation underlined the urgency for Africa to build capacity, strengthen regional cooperation, and engage diverse voices in shaping the future of military AI. With Kenya positioning itself as a regional leader in digital transformation through its AI Strategy 2030, the forum marked a significant step in ensuring ethical, human-centered AI practices remain aligned with international law and values. Supported by global partnerships, the event reinforced the importance of trust, transparency, and collective responsibility in managing AI for peace and security.
Kenya Reasserts Commitment to Responsive AI Defense
