Rwanda to Host Major African Security Dialogue on AI, Drones and Autonomous Weapons

Kigali is set to host a high-level international security conference bringing together government officials, security experts, researchers and policymakers from more than 50 countries to discuss the growing impact of autonomous technologies on Africa’s security landscape.

The International Security Conference on Africa (ISCA) will hold the high-level dialogue at the Kigali Convention Centre on Wednesday, August 12, under the theme “The Rise of Autonomous Systems: Implications for Sovereignty and Security in Africa.”

According to ISCA, autonomous systems—including technologies powered by artificial intelligence—are increasingly being adopted for security and military purposes as they become more affordable, accessible and easier to deploy.

The organization says the development could significantly change the way conflicts are fought, particularly as drones and other systems capable of performing tasks with limited or no continuous human intervention become more widespread.

Amb. Lt Gen (Rtd) Frank Mushyo Kamanzi, Executive Director of ISCA, said African countries should play an active role in shaping how emerging technologies are developed and used in the security sector.

“Autonomous systems are here, and they are changing the way security challenges emerge, military capabilities are developed and how those capabilities are employed,” Kamanzi said.

He argued that Africa needs stronger accountable governance frameworks, greater investment in technology and improved human capacity to respond effectively to the rapid evolution of autonomous systems.

The August 12 dialogue is expected to bring together representatives from security institutions, international and regional organizations, researchers and policy think tanks.

Discussions will examine emerging security challenges across Africa and possible strategies for developing sustainable responses.

Key areas on the agenda include lessons from military operations, the opportunities and vulnerabilities associated with autonomous systems, regional competition, governance, regulatory frameworks and efforts to strengthen the technological capabilities of African security institutions.

ISCA says the broader objective is to help African countries develop strategies that protect national sovereignty and strengthen strategic autonomy in security matters as emerging technologies continue to reshape warfare and global security.