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Kenya Launches Diplomat’s Playbook on AI Governance

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Kenya has unveiled its first-ever Diplomat’s Playbook on Artificial Intelligence (AI) Governance, a groundbreaking guide aimed at equipping Kenyan diplomats with the knowledge and tools to effectively engage in global AI policy discussions.

The playbook, released on Friday, December 6, 2024, by the Office of the Special Envoy on Technology, underscores Kenya’s commitment to fostering ethical and inclusive AI governance.

This initiative is designed to enhance Kenya’s influence in international AI dialogues while aligning with national priorities and global objectives.

Strengthening Kenya’s Diplomatic Influence

At the launch event, Prime Cabinet Secretary (CS) Musalia Mudavadi—represented by Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya and Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Dr Korir Sing’oei—emphasized AI’s transformative role on the global stage.

“Artificial Intelligence is rapidly reshaping global dynamics, influencing international relations, economic progress, and social development in unprecedented ways,” Mr Mudavadi stated.

ICT and Digital Economy CS Dr Margaret Nyambura Ndung’u highlighted the need for synergy between technical expertise and diplomacy.

“Combining our diplomatic skills with technical knowledge ensures that we advocate for AI systems that drive innovation and economic growth while upholding values of inclusivity, sustainability, and ethical governance,” Dr Ndung’u noted.

Core Features of the Playbook

Authored by Ambassador Philip Thigo, the Diplomat’s Playbook will be distributed across all Kenyan diplomatic missions and made available digitally.

It provides a strategic framework for engaging in global AI conversations with a focus on:

  • Ethical AI Governance: Promoting fairness, transparency, and inclusivity in AI systems.
  • Global South Empowerment: Addressing structural inequalities in AI adoption and usage.
  • AI-Driven Solutions: Highlighting AI’s potential to address challenges in agriculture, healthcare, and climate change mitigation.

Ambassador Thigo emphasized the importance of these principles during the launch stating:“Our message in global AI discussions is clear: AI must operate under principles of fairness, transparency, and inclusivity, empowering the Global South and addressing existing inequalities.”

He added, “This playbook is not just a guide but a testament to our resolve to govern AI in a manner that unleashes its transformative power to address some of humanity’s greatest challenges and advance the Sustainable Development Goals on a global scale. Through this initiative, we aim to advance diplomacy in leveraging AI to tackle some of humanity’s most pressing challenges—such as climate change, poverty, healthcare, and education.”

The ambassador further noted that the book equips diplomats with comprehensive knowledge to adeptly navigate the rapidly evolving AI landscape, ensuring they represent Kenya’s interests and uphold the country’s values with unparalleled clarity and confidence.

“Moreover, it underscores our commitment that AI and other new and emerging technologies must be governed in a safe, secure, inclusive, and trustworthy manner.”

Kenya’s Role in Global AI Leadership

The launch of the playbook aligns with Kenya’s active role in global AI governance.

Kenya’s participation in the International Network of AI Safety Institutes in San Francisco highlights its commitment to advancing AI safety, innovation, and responsible development. This proactive approach positions Kenya as a trusted leader and partner in the global AI space.

By introducing this playbook, Kenya cements its role as a regional leader in responsible AI governance, fostering innovation, advocating for ethical standards, and building international partnerships to drive sustainable growth and development.

 

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