Kenya Combats AI Disinformation: President Ruto Unveils New Regulatory Measures

• Kenyan President William Ruto announced initiatives to curb the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) for spreading disinformation.
• The initiative is part of the Fifth National Action Plan on Open Government Partnership, which aims to foster collaboration with international partners.
• “We are also implementing a regulatory regime that forestalls the abuse of new technologies, including artificial intelligence, which leads to disinformation that threatens our democracy,” said President Ruto.

Kenya unveils strategies to combat AI-driven disinformation, enhancing ethical use of technology.

Kenya’s Regulatory Measures Against AI Disinformation

Kenya is rolling out comprehensive regulatory measures to address the potential misuse of AI technologies. President Ruto emphasized the urgency of these actions to safeguard the country’s democratic processes. This move is part of a broader effort to join hands with global counterparts, aiming to ensure the ethical utilization of AI.

Combating AI-Fueled Social Unrest

In recent years, Kenya has faced significant social unrest, with AI playing a role in spreading disinformation. Noteworthy incidents in 2021 and 2023 illustrated how AI could exacerbate social tensions. These events have underscored the importance of regulatory oversight and responsible AI usage to prevent the spread of misleading information.

Partnerships and Strategic Collaborations

To foster a responsible AI landscape, Kenya has partnered with international organizations such as Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ). This collaboration is pivotal in developing a National AI Strategy aimed at driving digital innovation while maintaining ethical standards.

Legislative Efforts and Penalties

Kenya is also taking legislative steps to reinforce its AI regulatory framework. A proposed bill seeks to establish the Kenya Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Society, which will oversee compliance, provide advisory services on AI trends, and advocate for responsible development. The bill also includes stipulations for penalties, such as imprisonment of up to 24 months or fines not exceeding $6,250 for non-compliant entities.

Conclusion

Kenya’s proactive stance on regulating AI technologies reflects its commitment to safeguarding democratic values and promoting ethical tech usage. By implementing stringent regulations and fostering international collaborations, the country aims to counter the risks associated with AI-driven disinformation, ensuring a secure and informed society.