2 posts tagged with "technology"

Africa is at a pivotal moment with the rapid advancement of technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI). The continent has immense potential to embrace AI driven development as a catalyst for economic and social transformation—one that could allow African nations to leapfrog conventional growth models. However, this opportunity will only materialise if countries act swiftly and decisively with unified AI policies and a clear approach to governing AI. Without coordination, Africa risks falling behind in the global AI race, which could impact its future prospects. 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 regulatory developments across the US, China, and the EU, the impact of hasty regulation on emerging markets, particularly in Africa, requires careful consideration.