IGAD Launches Consultations on Regional Artificial Intelligence Strategy

Addis Ababa, 5 September 2025 The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) on Friday opened a two-day consultation to develop a regional framework on artificial intelligence in East Africa. The workshop in Addis Ababa brings together policymakers, technical experts, academics, private-sector representatives and development partners from across the IGAD region.IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu said the region needed to move beyond observing the global expansion of artificial intelligence and play an active role in shaping how the technology is used. “The question is no longer whether artificial intelligence will transform our region, but how we harness it to accelerate development,” Workneh said. He said the regional strategy should reflect the realities and priorities of IGAD member states while aligning with the United Nations Global Digital Compact and the African Union's Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy.