Politics

African Union Committed to Developing AI Capabilities in Africa

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Artificial Intelligence (AI) is more than a technological leap; it is a transformative force reshaping our world. With profound impacts across economics, society, and geopolitics, AI is driving revolutionary changes in sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, finance, and education.

For Africa, AI represents a strategic asset pivotal to achieving the aspirations of Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It promises to ignite new industries, drive innovation, and create high-value jobs, all while preserving and advancing African culture and fostering continental integration.

In a landmark decision, the African Union Executive Council endorsed the Continental AI Strategy during its 45th Ordinary Session in Accra, Ghana, on July 18-19, 2024. This strategy underscores Africa’s commitment to an Africa-centric, development-focused approach to AI, promoting ethical, responsible, and equitable practices across the continent.

The Continental AI Strategy calls for unified national approaches among AU Member States to navigate the complexities of AI-driven change. It aims to strengthen regional and global cooperation, positioning Africa as a leader in inclusive and responsible AI development.

Developing national AI policies in Africa is critical for guiding the responsible and strategic deployment of artificial intelligence technologies across the continent. National AI policies provide a framework that can help countries harness AI’s potential while addressing challenges specific to their socio-economic contexts.

At the opening ceremony, African Union Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy H.E. Dr. Amani Abou-Zeid, represented by Mr. Waleed Hamdi, Head of Information Society Division, stated that AI holds transformative potential for Africa, driving the digital revolution and impacting sectors like healthcare, agriculture, education, finance, and public services. It presents unique opportunities to accelerate Agenda 2063 aspirations and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), stimulate economic growth, and create employment, particularly for women and youth. “The adoption of AI is growing across Africa. Google reports a 270% rise in AI-related searches in Africa over the past year, and research from the 2024 Stanford AI Index shows that 27% of Kenyans use ChatGPT daily. Several African universities, including those in Ghana, Uganda, and South Africa, have developed notable AI labs focusing on social impact,” noted H.E. Dr. Amani Abou-Zeid.

Commissioner Abou-Zeid commended the commitment of the African Union to developing the AI capabilities for its Member States saying “While AI offers immense benefits, it also poses risks, including rights infringements and misuse. The Continental AI Strategy reflects the African Union’s commitment to developing AI capabilities that address these risks and maximize benefits at all levels. Guided by AU values, this strategy emphasizes ethical, responsible, and equitable AI development across the continent”.

According to Commissioner Abou-Zeid, the strategy builds on existing AU digital frameworks and mobilizes resources to support AI development in Africa. “AI systems must be adapted to local realities, reflecting Africa’s diversity, languages, cultural heritage, and unique contexts. The emerging global AI market, expected to reach USD 255.8 billion by 2033, offers a vast opportunity for Africa, but it is our shared responsibility to ensure AI serves the public and social interests of our people,” concluded Commissioner Abou-Zeid.

Speaking at the meeting “Shaping Africa’s Artificial Intelligence Future: Strategies for Inclusive and Collaborative National AI Policy Development,” NEPAD Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Amb. Nardos Bekele highlighted AI’s transformative power in addressing Africa’s multifaceted challenges across sectors such as health, education, agriculture, and governance.

“Artificial Intelligence is no longer a concept confined to science fiction; it is a reality that is reshaping industries worldwide,” she stated. “AI holds the potential to accelerate the realization of our Agenda 2063 and make our moonshot more attainable.”