The International Center for Humanitarian Affairs (ICHA), under the Kenya Red Cross Society, has launched a multi-stakeholder initiative aimed at ensuring artificial intelligence (AI) is used ethically and responsibly in humanitarian response.
The initiative brings together representatives from government, humanitarian organisations, academia and the private sector to identify risks associated with AI and develop shared ethical principles that promote transparency, accountability and public trust in AI-powered decision-making.
According to the Kenya Red Cross, the discussions are focused on ensuring that people affected by disasters and humanitarian crises can trust how AI systems are designed and how critical decisions that affect their lives are made.
The move comes as humanitarian agencies increasingly adopt AI to improve disaster preparedness, emergency response, needs assessments and resource allocation. However, experts have warned that without proper governance, AI systems could introduce bias, reduce transparency and expose vulnerable communities to new risks. Recent global research has also emphasised that AI in humanitarian settings should complement—not replace—human judgement and must be guided by strong ethical safeguards.
The initiative is supported by Slovak Aid, reflecting growing international cooperation in strengthening humanitarian innovation and resilience in Kenya. Slovakia has been a long-standing development and humanitarian partner of the Kenya Red Cross, supporting projects that enhance emergency preparedness and response across the country.
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