The State of AI in Africa

Africa’s unique data sets and cultural contextscan enhance AI models, making them more robust and applicable across different environments and help rectify existing inequalities. Find out why the African continent must be integral to global AI discourse.

When we speak about the world being abuzz with AI innovations and AI regulations, do we really mean the “world”? All of it?  Unfortunately, no! The global conversation about Artificial Intelligence (AI) almost always overlooks African nations. This is a serious mistake.

Ignoring Africa in the discourse on AI technology is counterproductive, especially in our interconnected world. With no less than 55 member nations, the African Union has a vibrant tech ecosystem filled with innovative startups and a young population. The continent faces unique challenges that could enhance the global AI dialogue. Ignoring them risks deepening existing inequalities as AI transforms sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and education.

Moreover, Africa’s unique data sets and cultural contexts can enhance AI models, making them more robust and applicable across different environments. The continent’s rapid urbanisation and mobile technology adoption create fertile ground for AI applications that can inform global strategies.

To create a more inclusive global perspective on AI, we must recognise and value Africa’s contributions. Collaboration with African nations fosters a more equitable technological ecosystem and ensures that AI development considers a wider range of human experiences.  It is high time that we explore the efforts of African countries in formulating AI regulations and the challenges they face in striking a balance between innovation and responsible deployment. This will also ensure that the world is on the same page and AI technologies and regulations benefit everyone, not just a select few.

Current State of AI Adoption in Africa

African countries are witnessing the growth of AI applications that address local challenges. For instance, in the Zanzibar archipelago of Tanzania, farmers are utilising AI-assisted apps like Nuru to detect cassava diseases. Additionally, South African computer scientists have developed machine learning models to analyse racial segregation in housing, while Nairobi employs AI to classify images from surveillance cameras. The projected economic benefits of AI adoption in Africa are substantial, with estimates suggesting potential gains of up to $136 billion by 2030 in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa alone.

The State of Regulatory Affairs

However, the rapid adoption of AI also raises concerns about potential social harms and the need for regulations to protect citizens. Recognising the importance of regulating AI, some African countries have begun formulating their own legal and policy frameworks. Currently, seven countries have developed national AI policies and strategies at various stages of implementation. The African Union Development Agency published a policy draft on 29 February 2024, providing a blueprint for AI regulations across African nations. The draft includes recommendations for industry-specific codes, standards and certification bodies, regulatory sandboxes, and the establishment of national AI councils to ensure responsible deployment. The African Union expects heads of African governments to endorse the continental AI strategy at the annual summit in February 2025, encouraging countries to develop their own national strategies or review and align existing policies with the AU’s framework.

Africa in the Global Context

As globalisation accelerates, the challenges and opportunities presented by AI transcend national boundaries. African nations are not only consumers of technology but also potential innovators and collaborators in the AI landscape. African voices are crucial for inclusive development and equitable access to technology. Local AI initiatives are already underway, providing valuable insights into ethical considerations and data governance. By excluding their perspectives, we miss out on diverse solutions to global problems, such as climate change, health crises, and food security. Thus, embracing Africa’s role in AI is essential for creating solutions that are effective, inclusive, and sustainable.

Africa’s voice in global discussions on AI governance and regulation has been limited, with only five initiatives from African countries out of more than 700 worldwide. To rectify this, African experts advocate for active participation in shaping regulatory frameworks and becoming standard makers rather than standard takers. Ethical concerns, such as labour exploitation by AI companies and the potential misuse of AI by governments, further emphasise the need for regulations to protect communities and ensure fairness.

Looking for a Strategy

As a continent, Africa is currently looking for an action plan to actively participate in shaping global discussions on AI governance and regulation that can safeguard AI innovations. A pro-active approach that is not lifted from European or American books is their need of the hour. That will ensure regulatory frameworks that are inclusive, context-specific, and prioritise the interests of African societies.

The following pointers summarise the road which African policymakers are currently taking:

• Strengthening research and expertise: Establishing AI research institutions and centres of excellence enable generation of local knowledge, policy research, and expertise.
• Capacity-building initiatives: This includes training programs, workshops, and educational prospects to enhance the understanding of AI among policymakers, regulators, and other stakeholders.
• Developing national AI policies: Continue focusing on own national AI policies and strategies that address the unique challenges and opportunities specific to each country.
• Strengthening data governance: Developing policies and regulations on data privacy, data ownership, and data sharing while fostering responsible and beneficial AI development.
• Establishing regional collaboration: Collaboration and knowledge sharing on AI governance within their regions. Such regional alliances collectively represent their interests and form the basis for global AI governance discussions.
• Collaborating with international partners: Join forces with international partners, including governments, organisations, and academic institutions. Countries with advanced AI capabilities can provide valuable insights and support.
• Advocating for inclusive AI governance: This includes ensuring that AI technologies are developed with consideration for cultural, social, and economic contexts of African populations and are accessible to all social segments, including marginalised communities.
• Engaging in international forums: Active participation in international forums ensure African countries make their voices heard and their perspectives considered.
• Forming partnerships with civil society organisations: Engaging civil society organisations – including human rights groups, consumer advocacy groups, and technology ethics organisations – in policy discussions and decision-making processes offer valuable insights and perspectives.
• Fostering public awareness and engagement: Prioritise public awareness and engagement on the potential risks and benefits of AI and provide opportunity for citizens to participate in policymaking processes.

Debates and Implementation Challenges

While AI regulations are seen as essential by many experts, debates exist regarding the appropriate timing and potential stifling of innovation. Some argue that Africa should prioritise the development of its AI industry before focusing on regulation to unlock innovation and opportunities. They emphasise the need to build homegrown AI applications tailored for African needs. However, proponents of regulation stress the importance of being proactive in addressing potential social harms and suggest reforming existing laws related to data privacy and digital governance to accommodate AI.

Implementing AI regulations in Africa poses challenges. The African Union lacks the power to enforce sweeping policies and laws across member states. Thus, even if the AI policy draft receives endorsement, African nations must develop their own national AI policies and laws based on the continental strategy. Additionally, the nascent state of the AI industry in Africa, limited access to quality training data, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of funding hinder progress.

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Although striking a balance between innovation and regulation remains a challenge, it is crucial for African countries to participate actively in context-specific AI development that considers a diverse population and fosters sustainable economic growth. Africa can seize this opportunity to become a model for local AI regulation and governance.