The African Union (AU) has taken a major step towards embracing Artificial Intelligence (AI) with the adoption of the Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy. The decision was made during the AU Executive Council’s 45th Ordinary Session, held on July 18-19, 2024, in Accra.
The AU highlighted that AI’s transformative impact is evident worldwide and cannot be ignored in Africa; therefore, the continent must align to harness its potential for change.
The new strategy is designed to align with the continent’s long-term goals, particularly Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Agenda 2063 are two distinct but complementary frameworks that guide Africa’s development.
SDGs is made up of 17 global goals adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015. The SDGs aim to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all by 2030. The goals cover various areas like health, education, gender equality, clean water, and climate action.
Agenda 2063 is Africa’s blueprint for transforming the continent into a global powerhouse of the future. Adopted by the African Union in 2013, it outlines a 50-year plan to achieve socio-economic transformation.
Some of the key aspirations of Agenda 2063 include a prosperous Africa based on inclusive growth and sustainable development; an integrated continent, politically united and based on the ideals of Pan-Africanism; good governance, democracy, respect for human rights, justice, and the rule of law; and a peaceful and secure Africa.
Others are an Africa continent with a strong cultural identity, common heritage, and shared values; an Africa whose development is people-driven, relying on the potential of its women, youth, and children; and Africa as a strong, united, resilient, and influential global player and partner.
The Continental AI Strategy emphasizes an Africa-centric and development-focused approach. It seeks to promote ethical, responsible, and equitable AI practices which should boost innovation, create high-value jobs, and advance its cultural heritage.
It is also expected to unify national policies among AU Member States to navigate the challenges of AI. Several African nations have started developing policies and framework for AI.
Rwanda is emerging as a leader in AI adoption in Africa. The country has established the Kigali Innovation City, which aims to foster a tech ecosystem, including AI. Rwanda has also partnered with global tech companies to enhance AI capabilities and has implemented AI in sectors like healthcare and agriculture.
South Africa has been at the forefront of AI development on the continent. The country has a strong research community focused on AI, and its universities are actively involved in AI research.
Kenya is known for its vibrant tech scene and has been integrating AI into various sectors, including finance (through mobile banking and fintech) and agriculture. Nairobi, often referred to as “Silicon Savannah,” is a hub for AI startups and innovation.
Just a year ago, Nigeria through the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovations & Digital Economy unveiled its plan to develop a national AI strategy. Few months later, Nigeria joined 17 other nations to adopt UK-developed AI guidelines. Others nations pushing in the realm of artificial intelligence are Ghana, Nigeria, Tunisia, and Morocco.
The AI initiative in Africa mirrors efforts in the EU, where they’ve developed the European AI Strategy in 2018, the Ethics Guidelines for Trustworthy AI in 2019, the Artificial Intelligence Act in 2021, and other related frameworks.
