Artificial Intelligence continues to emerge as a radically transformative technology with immense potential to revolutionalise sectors of the economy and to help achieve continental development goals. However, it would seem that the enormous potential of AI in Africa is yet to be tapped and some experts are of the opinion that there is a need for a comprehensive approach to AI governance on the continent to promote open data initiatives and data sharing across the continental free trade area.
In 2023, the African Union (AU) developed a Continental Strategy on Artificial Intelligence (the AU-AI Strategy) to guide African countries on how to support inclusive and sustainable AI-enabled socio-economic transformation. Conversations around what makes for an effective continental strategy are pertinent. Questions around strengthening local content and an enabling environment, ethical and gender considerations, and regional cooperation should be had.
This session provided an opportunity for panelists and the audience to discuss the current state of AI Policy in Africa and recommendations for a Continental AI Strategy and Framework for Africa. Panelists addressed the key considerations and opportunities that exist for the Continent to effectively harness the full potential of a regional AI Policy Framework.
