Africa must unite against digital-age threats, Intelligence Chiefs warn at Mashariki Conference

Speaking at the close of the high-level summit, the Director General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS), Mr. Noordin Haji, issued a sobering warning about the evolving nature of national security threats in the digital era.

“The threat of rapid technological advancements, developments on social media, and the rise of digital activism have escalated security risks to unprecedented levels,” Haji stated.

“The proliferation of misinformation and disinformation, especially through AI-generated content, has launched a war against truth—governments being the primary targets.”

Haji welcomed the shared commitment of participating member states to confront these emerging threats through collective action. He emphasized the importance of unified strategies to safeguard both national and regional stability.

Highlighting how traditional threats are adapting to new technologies, Haji added:

“Insurgents are increasingly exploiting blockchain technology and weak internal financial systems to launder money and facilitate illicit financial flows. We are witnessing a growing convergence between terrorism and transnational organized crime.”

Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi, echoed the urgency of adapting to technological changes while harnessing intelligence for Africa’s security and integration.

“The world cannot run away from the challenges posed by artificial intelligence. We must embrace it and ensure it serves us. Intelligence will be critical in advancing African integration,” said Mudavadi.

He also stressed the broader role of intelligence services in promoting peace and development across the continent.

The MCC convened intelligence and security leaders from across the region, setting the stage for deeper collaboration in the face of a fast-evolving global threat landscape.