By Issa Hussein - Reporter
Kenya, 9 June 2026 - The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has graduated a new cohort of service members trained in Artificial Intelligence (AI), marking a significant step in the military's efforts to build a technologically advanced force capable of responding to emerging security challenges.
The Service Members Basic Artificial Intelligence Course 01/26 concluded with a graduation ceremony at the National Military Command Centre (NMCC) in Karen, Nairobi, presided over by Brigadier Joel Kirimi from Defence Headquarters.
The course was conducted by the Defence Intelligence Academy (DIA) in partnership with the Moran AI and Cyber Centre of Excellence (MAIC CoE), with support from instructors from Action Lab, an initiative under the Office of the Special Envoy on Technology.
According to KDF, the training provided participants with foundational knowledge and practical skills in artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies, preparing them to operate in an increasingly digital and data-driven security environment.
The programme forms part of the military's broader modernization strategy as defence institutions around the world increasingly integrate advanced technologies into intelligence gathering, decision-making, surveillance, logistics, and operational planning.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony, Brigadier Kirimi said the future of military operations will depend on the ability of personnel to adapt to rapidly evolving technologies.
"The future of national defence will be shaped by those who can think, adapt, and innovate. This course is a foundation; the responsibility now lies with each of you to apply these skills in service of our nation," he told the graduates.
He commended the participants for their commitment during the training and urged them to use their newly acquired skills to strengthen KDF's operational capabilities.
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Military officials noted that as security threats become more complex and increasingly influenced by technology, understanding and responsibly managing emerging digital tools is becoming an essential skill for modern military professionals.
The training also reflects KDF's growing focus on innovation, cyber capabilities, and digital transformation as key pillars of national defence.
Through the Moran AI and Cyber Centre of Excellence, the military aims to develop a workforce capable of leveraging artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies to improve operational effectiveness and enhance decision-making.
KDF said the initiative is part of a broader effort to position Kenya as a regional leader in military innovation while promoting technological collaboration and capacity building among African defence institutions.
Officials believe programmes such as the Basic Artificial Intelligence Course will help prepare a new generation of military personnel to operate effectively in an era where data, automation, and emerging technologies are increasingly shaping the security landscape.
The graduation comes as governments and security agencies worldwide continue to invest heavily in artificial intelligence and digital technologies to strengthen defence preparedness and address evolving security threats.