Let’s “exercise caution when adopting advanced reproductive technologies”: Nairobi-based Catholic Priest

“Without understanding the technology, how can one interpret or critique it effectively from a theological or ethical standpoint? Thus, technological development must always honour human life, even from its earliest stages. Technologies that disregard the sanctity of life must be avoided at all costs,” said the Tanzanian Catholic Priest.

Fr. Kimario, who presented a paper titled “Biblical Ethical Teaching on Surrogacy and Childlessness in African Societies in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” noted that the use of AI in healthcare “is rapidly growing and transforming the landscape of modern reproductive medicine.”

He told participants at the October 6–8 event that AI “advancement is clearly supported and encouraged by the Church through the document Donum Vitae, which calls for continued medical research to prevent, and whenever possible, to remedy sterility.” 

“With this understanding, such progress brings a ray of hope to childless families, especially now that AI technology is being applied to address infertility. Research is ongoing, but infertility treatment with AI is rapidly advancing in digital healthcare,” he said. 

AI technology, he added, “allows for more accurate, consistent, and faster detection and diagnosis ... infertility challenges can be addressed more efficiently through AI when integrated into reproductive technologies as a means of developing new treatment methods.”

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“For example, when the technology is applied to reproductive technologies involving eggs, sperm, and embryos, it can analyze shapes, movements, and developmental patterns to make the best decisions when abnormalities arise,” explained the Tanzanian-born AJ member.

Fr. Kimario acknowledged the role of AI-driven tools and technologies in enhancing “the accuracy of diagnostic tests, providing personalized treatment plans, and increasing the chances of successful conception for couples facing fertility challenges.”

For him, “Ethical action requires collaboration among governments, religious institutions, corporations, academic institutions, the private sector, and civil society. Governments must create and enforce laws to regulate AI use and prevent abuse.”

“The religious sector also has a vital role to play. It should promote awareness about infertility and bioethical issues related to AI,” he said, adding that the corporate and private sectors should also commit to ethical innovation and responsible use of technology.

Fr. Kimario encouraged couples who desire children but cannot conceive to trust in God while remaining open to medical treatment and ethical use of technology. 

“Good stewardship of our bodies and natural resources is also vital. To address infertility and maintain healthy bodies, we must care for ourselves holistically, physically, spiritually, and morally. As Donum Vitae reminds us, research should seek genuine healing,” he said. 

He added, “Trusting in God may also involve embracing adoption or living a life of service in the Kingdom, as seen in those who freely choose celibacy.”

“Childlessness is not a sign of spiritual failure or divine displeasure. Rather, it invites faith, reflection, and acceptance. Such couples should be encouraged to acknowledge their grief and loss, as the Psalmist says, ‘You desire truth in my inmost being’ (Psalm 51). Awareness, acceptance, and hope are part of healing,” said the native the Catholic Diocese of Moshi in Tanzania.

Nicholas Waigwa is a Kenyan multimedia journalist and broadcast technician with a professional background in creating engaging news stories and broadcasting content across multiple media platforms. He is passionate about the media apostolate and Catholic Church communication.