IGAD calls for AI-driven cybersecurity strategy to combat rising threats in Horn of Africa

The Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, has called for a coordinated regional effort to combat cybercrime through the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and enhanced cybersecurity measures.

He emphasised that such collaboration is essential to ensuring security, sustainable 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, held in Nairobi, Dr. Gebeyehu highlighted the transformative potential of technology when steered by ethical leadership and human-centred values.

“Technology best serves humanity when we, as humanity, guide its development,” he said.

The event brought together dignitaries including Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for ICT William Kabogo, and the Norwegian Ambassador to Kenya Gunnar Andreas Holm, among others. The seminar focused on how the region can jointly strengthen its defenses against rising cyber threats.

Dr. Gebeyehu underscored the role of AI in enhancing regional law enforcement, combating transnational crime, and improving border management.

He cited promising initiatives such as: Kenya’s 40% reduction in police response time through AI-powered surveillance; Ethiopia’s deployment of predictive policing algorithms and Rwanda’s use of AI in community policing.

Despite these successes, Dr. Gebeyehu raised serious concerns about the growing cyber threat in the region.

“Cyberattacks now account for 68% of successful breaches across Africa. Kenya alone lost over $83 million to cybercrime in 2023,” he revealed, urging IGAD member states to adopt coordinated, data-driven cybersecurity strategies.

The Executive Secretary also stressed the socioeconomic potential of decisive action in the digital space, predicting that AI could contribute up to $180 billion to the region’s GDP and generate 2.5 million jobs by 2035—particularly in cybersecurity.

“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,” he said, describing AI as the new global divide.

Dr. Gebeyehu urged IGAD countries to dismantle data silos, build secure digital infrastructure, and lead with cooperation and responsible innovation. He also proposed that each IGAD member state allocate at least 2% of its annual budget to establish a fund that supports security personnel in fighting cybercrime.

Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for ICT William Kabogo, acknowledged the progress made but cautioned against complacency.

“We must remain alert and proactive in combating cybercrime, rather than reacting after attacks have occurred,” he stated. “This will provide security and a long-term strategy to safeguard the Horn of Africa.”