AI in Africa: Key Concerns and Considerations

In an optimistic scenario, Africa is well placed to have its health, agriculture, manufacturing, economy, and education sectors exponentially increase in growth and competitiveness through artificial intelligence (AI). While it is estimated that AI will contribute $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, the projected gains for Africa are paltry compared to China and Western nations. What are the current gaps, challenges, opportunities for Africa to benefit from this growth? How can we address Africa’s structural & infrastructural pre-conditions of AI to design AI policy strategies and regulatory responses that address the continental context? How can we advance Africa’s place in AI global governance & protect African societies from harm and exploitation? What are the emerging AI policy trends that are taking into account key considerations for Africa?

APRI – Africa Policy Research Institute  hosted a webinar to deliberate on these issues, at the AI in Africa: Key Concerns and Considerations webinar which was held on Wednesday, 1st December 2021 from 1300h-1430h GMT.

The objective of the webinar was to provide an overview of the current impacts of AI within the African region, to review the emerging policy responses, and to set out a series of policy recommendations to strengthen the development of locally relevant AI technologies and ecosystems in diverse African societies.

Chenai Chair hosted Dr Adekemi Omotubora, Dr. Rachel Adams, and Rebecca Ryakitimbo.

Missed the webinar? Watch the recording here.