NAIROBI, Kenya, Feb 21 – Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei has apologised after posting an AI-generated video which showed CNN political commentator Fareed Zakaria commenting on Kenya’s controvesial decision to allow the Rapid Support Forces of Sudan and its allies to hold a ceremony that would have led to the forming of a parallel government.
In a statement on his X Account, PS Sing’Oei acknowledged the mistake adding that he regreted any confusion the video may have caused.
“I sincerely apologize for inadvertently posting an AI-generated video disguised as a genuine commentary from Fareed Zakaria of CNN on the search for peace in the Sudan conflict and Kenya’s role in it,” said Korir.
An AI deepfake video is a computer-created artificial intelligence video in which images are combined or altered to create new footage that depicts events, statements or action that never actually happened.
The flagged video ostensibly defended Kenya’s peace diplomacy steps in the Sudan conflict.
He went on to thank everyone who flagged the video as a deepfake.
The PS said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been working with partners and tech companies to explore the potential of watermarking AI-generated content.
An initiative he said is to ensure that such material does not pose as human-generated material.
“Additionally, we are designing with the collaboration of partners and big-tech companies the School of AI Diplomacy (SAID) at the Foreign Services Academy, a program I will attend to equip policymakers better to navigate these emerging challenges,” he said.
Sing’Oei further revealed plans to launch an AI Diplomacy program at the Foreign Service Academy, aimed at equipping policymakers with the necessary skills to navigate AI-related challenges.
Sudan’s Foreign Ministry has already recalled its Ambassador to Kenya for consultations
Sudan accused Kenya of supporting the rebel group after the RSF, which has been at war with the army since 2023.
