African Ministers endorse joint continental AI strategy
New AI strategy aims to drive Africa’s inclusive growth
#AfricanUnion #AIstrategy - More than 130 African ICT and Communications Ministers endorsed a new Continental Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy and African Digital Compact to accelerate the continent’s digital transformation. The landmark agreement was made as the ministers remotely attended the African Union’s 2nd Extraordinary session of the Specialized Technical Committee on Communication and ICT. The continental AI strategy aims to harness AI for Africa’s development by focusing on talent, innovation, and inclusivity while prioritising safeguards.
SO WHAT? - The Continental AI Strategy and African Digital Compact marks a milestone in Africa's digital journey, aiming to position the continent not only as a consumer, but as a key player in the global digital economy. Core to Africa’s claim to become a key digital producer is its fast growing pool of coders and tech talent. According to a 2022 report by Washington DC-based Brookings Institute, Africa has the potential to leverage its talent base to become a global leader in software development by 2030. By investing in local talent, digital infrastructure, and inclusive policies, African Union member states believe that the continent can drive a competitive AI and digital technology sector that supports Africa’s sustainable development and meaningful progress across sectors.
Here are some key points of this announcement by the African Union:
More than 130 African Union ICT and Communications Ministers of gathered from June 11-13, 2024, for the 2nd Extraordinary session of the Specialized Technical Committee on Communication and ICT.
The Continental Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy and African Digital Compact will provide African countries with guidance on adopting AI for ethical use and minimising risks, aiming for Africa-owned, people-centred digital development.
Key priorities for the strategy include AI infrastructure, data management, innovation ecosystems, and collaborative partnerships to support inclusive AI adoption.
Underpinning Africa’s Agenda 2063, the strategy plans to invest in skills, research, and innovation, driving significant advances across healthcare, education, agriculture, and governance.
The African Digital Compact, endorsed alongside the AI Strategy, aims to shape Africa’s digital governance, foster digital skills, and support local innovation for a stronger role in the global digital economy.
The two initiatives fall under the African Union's Digital Transformation Strategy (2020-2030).
A future African AI Summit is planned to further enhance collaboration and strategic planning on AI across the continent.
