ICT and Communications Ministers from Africa unanimously endorsed the Continental Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy and African Digital Compact. This initiative aims to harness the power of AI to accelerate development, foster ethical AI practices, and mitigate risks while seizing new opportunities.

Continental AI strategy and African digital strategy: Shaping Africa’s digital future

The Continental AI strategy and African digital strategy provides a comprehensive framework for African nations to leverage AI in achieving their development aspirations. It emphasises a people-centered, Africa-owned approach. This is to promote inclusivity and sustainable growth. Key priorities include education, health, agriculture, infrastructure, and governance. This aims to empower African countries to utilise AI for social progress and economic prosperity.

Examples of AI in key areas

  • Education: Eneza Education provide personalised learning experiences to students in rural areas through mobile phones tailoring content to individual learning paces and needs. This is a personalised learning solutions driven by AI.
  • Health: Telemedicine platforms like Babyl provides virtual consultations and health advice. This makes healthcare accessible to people in rural and underserved areas.
  • Agriculture: Pest and disease control AI systems like PlantVillage Nuru help farmers identify crop diseases and pests through smartphone images. This solution provides real-time advice on how to manage and treat them.

These examples showcase the transformative potential of AI in key sectors, contributing to sustainable development and improved quality of life across Africa.

Continental AI strategy and African digital strategy: Empowering innovation and collaboration

It is aligned with the African Union’s Digital Transformation Strategy (2020-2030) and Agenda 2063.  The African digital compact fosters an enabling environment for digital technologies across Africa. It supports human capital development, strengthens research and innovation ecosystems, and establishes robust institutional frameworks for AI readiness. It advocates for strategic investments in African youth, innovators, computer scientists, data experts, and AI researchers aim to enhance Africa’s competitiveness in the global AI landscape.

Building on continental policies and frameworks

Rooted in the African Union’s commitment to digital transformation, the Continental AI strategy and African digital compact build upon existing continental policies, such as data protection, cybersecurity, and digital inclusion frameworks. They play a pivotal role in achieving Africa’s long-term development goals and ensuring equitable access to digital technologies.

Moving Forward: Advancing Africa’s digital destiny

As Africa embarks on this transformative journey, collaboration and cooperation among governments, private sectors, academia, and civil society will be crucial. This endorsement marks a significant milestone in Africa’s pursuit of digital sovereignty and economic empowerment. It paves the way for AI-driven solutions that serve diverse populations and foster sustainable development across the continent.