Kenya Defence Forces expands AI capacity-building efforts through new training course

The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has completed the Service Members Basic Artificial Intelligence Course 01/26, a training programme aimed at strengthening AI capabilities among military personnel. The course concluded with a graduation ceremony at the National Military Command Centre in Nairobi.

Delivered by the Defence Intelligence Academy in partnership with the Moran AI and Cyber Centre of Excellence and other technology partners, the programme provided participants with foundational knowledge of AI and emerging technologies. The course aimed to equip participants with practical skills relevant to increasingly data-driven security and defence environments.

According to KDF, the initiative supports broader efforts to modernise military capabilities and prepare personnel for the growing role of data, automation and digital technologies in defence operations. Officials described technological literacy as an increasingly important competency in modern military service.

The programme forms part of KDF’s wider strategy to strengthen digital skills and innovation capacity. The military said the programme also supports regional cooperation and technological capacity development through partnerships with institutions across Africa.

Why does it matter?

AI is increasingly influencing defence planning, intelligence analysis, logistics and operational decision-making. As armed forces around the world integrate data-driven technologies into their activities, developing AI literacy and digital skills among personnel is becoming a strategic priority.

The KDF initiative reflects a broader trend in which military organisations are investing in AI-related capacity building to ensure personnel can effectively understand, manage and operate alongside emerging technologies while supporting long-term defence modernisation efforts.

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