African Union Approves Continental AI Strategy to Boost Adoption Across Member States

The African Union (AU) has officially endorsed the “Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy,” aiming to accelerate AI development and adoption throughout the continent. This strategic move seeks to drive innovation and growth in both the public and private sectors across AU member states.

The strategy was confirmed during the AU Executive Council’s 45th Ordinary Session held in Accra, Ghana, from July 18 to 19. Announced on August 9, the strategy outlines a comprehensive plan to harness AI for Africa’s development and the welfare of its population.

Key Recommendations of the AI Strategy

The Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy proposes several crucial recommendations, including:

• Development of AI Infrastructure: Establishing a unified hardware and software environment to support AI and machine learning workloads, facilitating efficient data processing and deployment.
• AI Governance Systems: Creating governance frameworks to oversee AI implementation and ensure ethical use in line with African cultural values.
• Sectoral Integration: Promoting AI integration across key sectors outlined in the AU’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Private Sector Engagement: Encouraging AI adoption by private enterprises and fostering an environment conducive to AI startups, including ensuring access to high-quality datasets.
• Skills and Research: Focusing on the development of AI skills, promoting research and innovation, and adhering to ethical principles that align with African values.
• Standards and Investment: Establishing technical standards for AI safety and security, accelerating investment in AI, enhancing regional cooperation, and increasing African involvement in global AI governance.

Implementation Timeline

The strategy outlines a five-year implementation period, from 2025 to 2030, divided into two phases:

• Phase One (2025–2026): This phase will focus on establishing governance frameworks, developing national AI strategies, mobilizing resources, and strengthening capacities within the AU, regional economic communities, and member states.
• Phase Two (2027–2030): The second phase will center on the execution of key projects and initiatives outlined in the strategy.

Current AI Landscape in Africa

As of July, six African countries—Algeria, Benin, Egypt, Mauritius, Rwanda, and Senegal—have developed standalone AI strategies. Meanwhile, other countries like Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda are incorporating AI into emerging technologies such as blockchain.

Several nations, including Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritania, Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda, have made significant strides in defining AI policies and establishing institutions to drive AI development. The AU’s strategy aims to build on these efforts and further advance AI capabilities across the continent.