By Eddah Waithaka
Workneh Gebeyehu, the Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), today urged member states to adopt a unified approach to artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity to counter escalating digital threats across the Horn of Africa.
Speaking at the Regional Consultative Seminar on Harnessing Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity for Security, Cooperation, and Resilience, Gebeyehu warned that cyberattacks now account for 68% of successful breaches in Africa, with Kenya alone losing $83 million to cybercrime in 2023.
AI as a Security Tool and a Target
Gebeyehu highlighted AI’s potential to transform regional security, citing Uganda’s National Digital ID system, Rwanda’s AI-integrated policing, and Djibouti’s AI-powered port security as success stories.
However, he stressed that terrorist groups and criminal networks are increasingly exploiting weak digital defenses, with attacks on Kenyan government systems rising by 45% year-on-year.
“If we act decisively, the IGAD region can lead in responsible AI deployment,” he said. By 2035, AI could contribute $180 billion to regional GDP and create 2.5 million jobs, including in cybersecurity—but only if member states bridge the critical skills gap.
Currently, the region trains fewer than 15,000 AI and cybersecurity professionals annually, far short of the 500,000 needed by 2030.
Three-Point Plan for Digital Security
Gebeyehu proposed a comprehensive three-pronged strategy to secure the region’s digital future, which includes establishing Harmonized Security Governance through the development of regional AI ethics protocols, shared cybersecurity standards, and cross-border incident response mechanisms.
Additionally, the plan emphasizes the Investment in Security Professionals by launching an IGAD Digital Security Skills Initiative aimed at training experts and setting up AI centers of excellence in each member state.
Finally, it advocates for Indigenous Security Innovation by creating an IGAD AI Security Innovation Fund to support startups focused on addressing challenges in border monitoring, counterterrorism, and cyber defense.
The “Nairobi Commitment”
Gebeyehu called for a “Nairobi Commitment,” urging that by 2030, every IGAD citizen should benefit from AI-enhanced security while being protected from digital threats.
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He emphasized the need for private sector investment in local talent development and encouraged development partners to provide technology transfers for law enforcement.
Norway Backs Regional Cybersecurity Efforts
Norwegian Ambassador Gunnar Andreas Holm echoed the urgency, emphasizing Norway’s support for IGAD’s Security Sector Program. He cited Norway’s National Cyber Security Strategy, updated four times since 2003, as a model for balancing innovation with security.
“Cybersecurity is not just a technical issue it is fundamental to national security and democracy,” Holm said. He urged regional collaboration to combat cybercrime, disinformation, and AI misuse.
Gebeyehu warned of two possible futures: one where AI strengthens regional security, and another where digital colonialism leaves the Horn vulnerable.
“Our young entrepreneurs ask not for promises, but partnerships; not for charity, but opportunity; not for dependency, but digital sovereignty,” he declared.
The seminar, held just 60 km from Kenya’s Konza Technopolis, symbolizes Africa’s growing tech ambitions. With cyber threats rising, IGAD’s push for regional AI cooperation could determine whether the Horn of Africa secures it’s digital future or falls to it.
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