Uganda has earned a prominent seat at the African Union’s (AU) decision-making table on artificial intelligence (AI), with Dr. Kennedy Javuru being appointed to the newly formed AI, Peace, Security, and Governance (AI-PSG) Advisory Group under the AU Peace and Security Council.
Who is Dr. Kennedy Javuru?
Dr. Javuru, a distinguished scholar and expert in strategic communications, will represent East Africa in this high-level advisory team. He boasts an impressive academic background, holding a bachelor’s degree from Makerere University, a master’s in strategic communication from the London School of Economics, and a PhD in mass communications from London Metropolitan University.
Currently, he is furthering his expertise in artificial intelligence and law at the University of London, while also advising the Greater London Authority (GLA) on how emerging communication technologies can enhance strategic decision-making.
AU’s Bold Move on AI
The advisory group was established following a June 2024 resolution by the AU Peace and Security Council. Its mandate is to assess AI’s impact on governance, democracy, peace, and security across Africa and develop strategies for harnessing this transformative technology.
Among its key responsibilities, the group will:
✅ Guide the AU Commission on AI adoption in peacebuilding, electoral processes, post-conflict reconstruction, and governance.
✅ Propose an AI governance framework to ensure transparency, data protection, and ethical AI use across the continent.
✅ Advise on policy integration to maximize AI’s role in sustainable development and peaceful governance.
Dr. Javuru joins a select panel of experts from across Africa, including:
- Arielle Kitio Tsamo (Central Africa)
- Dr. Ahmed Abdel Fattah (North Africa)
- Dr. Ntando Sipho Tembo (Southern Africa)
- Samson Itodo (West Africa)
A Proud Moment for Uganda and East Africa
Reacting to his appointment, Dr. Javuru expressed both pride and commitment to the mission ahead:
💬 “I am honored 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.”
His inclusion in this advisory group marks a significant milestone for Uganda and East Africa, reinforcing the region’s role in shaping AI policies and governance at a continental level.
With AI rapidly evolving, the African Union’s proactive stance on technology-driven governance could pave the way for a more secure, democratic, and technologically empowered future for Africa.
