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The African Union (AU) has adopted a comprehensive strategy to guide the continent in the development, use, and regulation of generative artificial intelligence (AI). This strategic document was endorsed during the AU Executive Council’s 45th ordinary session held in Accra, Ghana, last week.
The newly adopted AI strategy, along with the Digital Compact for Africa, aims to steer African nations toward integrating AI technologies to foster socio-economic development. Both initiatives are in alignment with the AU’s 2030 Digital Transformation Strategy and its Agenda 2063.
The endorsement by the AU Executive Council came shortly after African ICT and Communication Ministers approved the strategy during the 2nd extraordinary session of the Specialized Technical Committee on ICT and Communication. This session was attended virtually by over 130 government representatives and experts, as reported by the AU.
Dr. Abou Zeid Amani, the AU Commissioner for Energy, Infrastructure, and Digitization, emphasized that the strategy will help African countries pursue their development goals while preserving their cultural identity. He noted that the document, also sent to the UN for appraisal, will assist nations in managing the risks associated with AI technology.
“AI systems should be able to reflect our diversity, languages, culture, history, and geographical contexts,” said Amani. “As we aim to create an inclusive AI ecosystem and a competitive African AI market that is adapted to our realities and meets our ambitions, we believe examining and approving this strategy will provide a common vision and path to accelerate responsible AI innovation and adoption in Africa.”
The AU’s AI strategy is designed to help African countries integrate AI solutions across various sectors, including education, health, agriculture, infrastructure, peace and security, and governance, as well as research and innovation. It underscores the importance of including Africa’s unique challenges and needs in the global AI discourse.
Amani also highlighted the Digital Compact, which mirrors the AU’s commitment to guiding countries towards inclusive progress and sustainable development.
The AI strategy and Digital Compact were formulated following extensive consultations with stakeholders across the continent.
Earlier this year, policy experts recommended a collaboration between the African Union and the European Union to enhance interoperability and support continental trade integration. This proposal coincided with the AU’s plans to adopt a Digital Trade Protocol, aiming to bolster digital trade across Africa.
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