en.Wedoany.com Reported - A capacity-building project on artificial intelligence and cybersecurity governance in Africa, funded by the Japanese government, has been officially launched. The project is implemented by the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
At the launch ceremony, KAIPTC Commandant Air Vice Marshal David Anetey Akrong stated that rapid technological advancements are reshaping the landscape of governance, security, economic development, and public service delivery across the African continent. He noted that African governments and security agencies are increasingly deploying AI-driven systems for border management, surveillance, intelligence gathering, disaster response, and administrative efficiency. However, he warned that the growing adoption of technology also brings new risks, including cybercrime, ransomware attacks, digital espionage, misinformation, disinformation, deepfakes, and the misuse of AI tools by criminal and extremist groups. Akrong emphasized that weak regulatory systems, limited institutional coordination, and capacity gaps in many African countries exacerbate vulnerabilities, highlighting the need to strengthen regional cooperation. The project aims to enhance coordination, institutional capacity, and policy coherence among member states of the African Union Peace and Security Council in AI and cybersecurity governance.
Japanese Ambassador to Ghana Hiroshi Yoshimoto stated that Japan's support for the initiative is based on its vision of a human-centered digital society, where technology serves people and improves lives. He called for joint international efforts to promote safe, secure, and trustworthy AI governance, noting that no single institution can effectively address AI and cybersecurity challenges alone. Yoshimoto also highlighted the long-standing relationship between Ghana and Japan, announcing three significant milestones next year: the 100th anniversary of Japanese medical scientist Dr. Hideo Noguchi's arrival in the Gold Coast (present-day Ghana), the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Ghana and Japan, and the 50th anniversary of Japan's volunteer service in Ghana.
UNDP Resident Representative in Ghana Niloy Banerjee described the project as highly timely. He noted that AI and digital technologies present immense opportunities for economic growth, innovation, and job creation, but also pose significant governance challenges, such as cybercrime, digitally induced conflicts, and cyberbullying, cyberstalking, and attacks against women and children, which are major issues requiring urgent attention. Banerjee expressed concern over the widening digital divide, warning that unequal access to technology could exacerbate social and economic inequalities between countries and communities. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital transformation process and called for policies that promote inclusivity and equal access to digital opportunities. The project will assist governments, policymakers, and institutions in developing strategies to maximize the benefits of AI while mitigating risks associated with emerging technologies.
As part of the launch, a steering committee was established to guide project implementation and support the building of a safer, more secure, and digitally resilient Africa.
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