IGAD Executive Secretary Calls for United AI and Cybersecurity Strategy to Secure Horn of Africa

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By irene 



The Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, has issued a compelling call for regional collaboration in adopting artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity measures to safeguard the future of security, development, and digital resilience across the Greater Horn of Africa.

Speaking during the Regional Consultative Seminar on Harnessing Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity for Security, Cooperation, and Resilience, Dr. Gebeyehu emphasized the transformative potential of technology when guided by ethical leadership and human-centered values.

“Technology best serves humanity when we, as humanity, guide its development,” he said, while addressing dignitaries including Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for ICT Hon. William Kabogo and the Norwegian Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Gunnar Andreas Holm.
The IGAD chief cited AI as a critical tool in enhancing regional law enforcement capabilities, combating transnational crime, and improving border management. He pointed to ongoing successes in the region, such as Kenya's 40% reduction in police response time through AI-driven surveillance, Ethiopia’s use of predictive policing algorithms, and Rwanda’s integration of AI in community policing models.

However, Dr. Gebeyehu also raised alarm over growing cyber threats. “Cyberattacks now account for 68% of successful breaches across Africa. Kenya alone lost over $83 million to cybercrime in 2023,” he revealed, urging IGAD states to adopt coordinated, data-driven strategies.

The Executive Secretary underscored the socioeconomic impact of decisive action, predicting that AI could contribute $180 billion to regional GDP and create 2.5 million jobs by 2035 — especially in cybersecurity.

Calling AI the new global divide, he said, “The future will not be defined by race or culture, but by those who can use AI and those who cannot. That is the new literacy.”

 Dr. Gebeyehu called on IGAD member states to break data silos, promote secure digital infrastructure, and shape the future of regional security through cooperation and responsible innovation.




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