Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Defence, Hon. Soipan Tuya, led a Kenyan delegation to the 2024 Responsible Artificial Intelligence in the Military Domain (REAIM) Summit, held in Seoul, South Korea, from September 9th to 10th. The summit was co-hosted by Kenya, the Netherlands, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, and the United Kingdom.
The REAIM Summit 2024 focused on advancing global discussions regarding the responsible development, deployment, and governance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the military domain. Key themes included addressing the ethical, legal, and security challenges of military AI technologies while promoting international cooperation, transparency, and accountability.
The event featured plenary sessions, interactive breakout discussions, and side events such as an AI exhibition, a youth-focused event, and bilateral meetings between participating nations.
In her opening remarks, CS Tuya emphasized the transformative potential of AI in the military and security sectors.
“As we navigate the intersection of technological advancement and international security, it is essential that we unite regionally and globally to promote responsible, accountable, and ethical AI governance,” the CS stated.
A significant outcome of the summit was the adoption of the REAIM Blueprint for Action, which outlines ethical guidelines for AI use in military settings, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and human oversight. The participants underscored the need for both regional and global AI governance, stressing the importance of local consultations while contributing to international standards. Additionally, they pledged support for the UN First Committee Resolution on the responsible use of AI in the military domain and highlighted the value of public-private partnerships in advancing ethical AI innovations.
During her visit to Seoul, CS Tuya engaged in bilateral meetings with key delegations, including the U.S., led by Undersecretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins; the Netherlands, led by Minister of Defence Hon. Rueben Brekelmans; and South Korea, led by Minister of National Defence Hon. Kim Yong Hyun. Discussions focused on reviewing existing partnerships and exploring future collaborations for the mutual benefit of Kenya and the involved countries.
CS Tuya was accompanied by Kenyan Ambassador to South Korea, Ambassador Emmy Kipsoi, Base Commander Kenya Navy Base Manda, Brigadier Lazarus Wafula, and Kenya Defence Attaché to Tokyo, Colonel Esther Wanjiku, among other officials.
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