In a landmark move, African ICT and Communications Ministers have unanimously endorsed the Continental Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy and African Digital Compact, aiming to accelerate Africa’s digital transformation. Over 130 African ministers and experts gathered virtually for the 2nd Extraordinary session of the Specialized Technical Committee on Communication and ICT from June 11 to 13, 2024. The goal was to ignite digital transformation across the continent and unlock the potential of new digital technologies, particularly artificial intelligence.
The Continental AI Strategy provides guidance for African countries to harness AI in line with their development goals and the well-being of their people. It emphasizes the ethical use of AI while minimizing risks and leveraging opportunities. The strategy calls for an Africa-owned, people-centered, and inclusive approach to develop AI capabilities in infrastructure, talent, datasets, innovation, and partnerships. At the opening of the ministerial session, African Union Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy Dr. Amani Abou-Zeid highlighted the tremendous opportunities that AI offers for positive transformational change, economic growth, and social progress in Africa.
Commissioner Abou-Zeid stated that adapting AI to African realities is crucial and that AI systems should reflect the diverse languages, cultures, histories, and geographic contexts of the continent. The strategy sets a roadmap for African countries to harness AI’s potential in areas such as education and skills, health, agriculture, infrastructure, peace and security, and good governance. By investing in African youth, innovators, computer scientists, data experts, and AI researchers, the framework paves the way for Africa’s success in the global AI arena.
Furthermore, the Minister of Information, Communications, Science Technology, and Innovation of the Kingdom of Lesotho, Nthati Moorsi, emphasized the opportunities arising from adopting AI-enabled systems. These systems can promote homegrown solutions, stimulate economic growth, and contribute to sustainable development in alignment with the African Union Agenda 2063 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
In addition to the Continental AI Strategy, the ministerial committee endorsed the African Digital Compact, which charts Africa’s digital future and aims to harness the transformative potential of digital technologies for sustainable development, economic growth, and societal well-being. Commissioner Abou-Zeid described the Compact as a remarkable initiative that positions Africa at the forefront of the global digital economy, not merely as a consumer but also as an innovator and producer. Building a strong pool of talent and enhancing public-private partnerships are crucial in promoting homegrown digital solutions.
During the discussions, the African ministers highlighted the importance of Africa’s role in shaping global digital governance and stressed the need for capacity building, knowledge transfer, and digital education to empower Africa’s youth, private sector, and institutions. Unique challenges and contexts of Africa must be taken into consideration in the global discourse around digital technologies to ensure equitable access and development of electronic technologies on the continent.
To foster collaboration, knowledge exchange, and strategic planning among stakeholders across the continent, the ministers mandated the African Union to organize a Continental African Artificial Intelligence Summit. This summit will provide a platform for stakeholders to come together and work towards the realization of these initiatives. The Continental AI Strategy and African Digital Compact will be submitted to the African Union Executive Council in July 2024 for consideration and adoption.
These initiatives are rooted in the African Union’s Digital Transformation Strategy (2020-2030) and Agenda 2063 and build upon other continental digital policies, strategies, and frameworks. They aim to foster the growth of digital technologies in all sectors and contribute to Africa’s long-term development aspirations.
With the endorsement of the Continental AI Strategy and African Digital Compact, Africa is demonstrating its commitment to harnessing the potential of AI and digital technologies for the benefit of its people. By fostering a people-centered and inclusive approach, Africa is poised to become a leading player in the global digital economy, driving positive change and progress across the continent.
Use the share button below if you liked it.