2 posts tagged with "technology"

Africa is at a pivotal moment with the rapid advancement of technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI). The continent has the potential to harness AI as a powerful equaliser—a tool that can level the playing field and enable African nations to leapfrog traditional stages of development. However, this potential will only be realised if African nations act swiftly and decisively to unify their approach to AI governance and development. Without a coordinated and cohesive strategy, the continent risks being left behind in the global AI race, with significant consequences for its economic and social future. The continent’s current position in the global AI landscape is somewhat tentative, marked by a nascent but growing engagement with AI technologies. This stance risks turning African nations into mere recipients of external norms and technologies, rather than active contributors to the global AI narrative. To avoid this, African governments must proactively address the specific challenges AI presents.

Image credit: Rens Dimmendaal & Johann Siemens / Better Images of AI / Decision Tree / CC-BY 4.0

Recent controversies surrounding AI, such as the Google Gemini incident, have intensified the global conversation on AI governance. While 2023 saw significant strides in AI regulation across the US, China, and the EU, the impact of hasty regulation on emerging markets, particularly in Africa, requires careful consideration.