Ugandan appointed to AU artificial intelligence advisory group

A Ugandan has been appointed to the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council’s newly established advisory group on artificial intelligence (AI), peace, security and governance  (AI-PSG).

Dr Kennedy Javuru, who is representing East Africa, is an expert in strategic communications and a scholar and is based in the United Kingdom.

Javuru, who has extensive experience and qualifications in strategic communications, has a degree from Makerere University, a master's degree in strategic communication from the London School of Economics and a PhD in mass communications from London Metropolitan University. 

Other individuals appointed to the advisory group, include Arielle Kitio Tsamo representing central Africa, Dr Ahmed Abdel Fattah representing northern Africa. Others are Dr Ntando Sipho Tembo representing Southern Africa and Samson Itodo representing West Africa.

Javuru, who is studying for a master's in law (Artificial Intelligence) at the University of London, advises the Greater London Authority (GLA) on the integration of new communication technologies into strategic decision-making processes.

The advisory group was established following a resolution by the AU Peace and Security Council in June 2024. Its mandate is to study the implications of AI on peace, security, democracy and development within Africa, and to guide the AU Commission in harnessing AI to address emerging challenges across the continent. 

The group is also expected to recommend strategies for incorporating AI into electoral processes, peacebuilding, reconciliation, post-conflict reconstruction, and governance.

The Advisory Group will also focus on issues, such as data protection, transparency and the development of an AI governance framework at the continental level. Javuru’s appointment represents a significant step for Uganda and East Africa’s participation in continental efforts to leverage technology for sustainable development and peaceful governance.

In his response to the appointment, Javuru said: “I am honoured to serve and contribute to shaping Africa’s future through responsible AI governance. This is a pivotal time to ensure technology enhances peace, security, and democratic processes across the continent.”