The African Union (AU) recently greenlighted the adoption of Artificial intelligence (AI) across its member states, signaling a major shift in the continent’s approach to technology and innovation.
This decision was announced in a document published on the AU website titled “Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy”. The AU executive council endorsed the Continental AI strategy during its 45th Ordinary Session in Accra, Ghana, on July 18-19, 2024. According to the Union, this endorsement underscores Africa’s commitment to an Africa-centric, development-focused approach to AI, promoting ethical, responsible, and equitable practices.
The AU wrote,
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“Artificial Intelligence (Al) is more than a technological leap; it’s a transformative force reshaping our world. With far-reaching impacts across economics, society, and geopolitics, Al is driving revolutionary changes in healthcare, agriculture, finance, and education.
“For Africa, Al is a strategic asset pivotal to achieving the aspirations of Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It promises to ignite new industries, fuel innovation, and create high-value jobs while preserving and advancing African culture and integration. In a landmark decision, the African Union Executive Council endorsed the Continental Al Strategy during its 45th Ordinary Session in Accra, Ghana, on July 18-19, 2024.
“This strategy underscores Africa’s commitment to an Africa-centric, development-focused approach to Al, promoting ethical, responsible, and equitable practices. The Continental Al Strategy calls for unified national approaches among AU Member States to navigate the complexities of Al-driven change, aiming to strengthen regional and global cooperation and position Africa as a leader in inclusive and responsible Al development.”
The AU’s Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy outlines a five-year implementation period from 2025 to 2030, divided into two phases. The initial phase, which covers from 2025-2026, prioritizes laying the groundwork by establishing governance frameworks, developing national Al strategies, mobilizing resources, and enhancing capacities within the African Union, Regional Economic Communities, specialized agencies, and member states.
The subsequent phase, from 2027 to 2030, focuses on the practical implementation of critical projects and initiatives outlined in the continental Al strategy. It is worth noting that the AU endorsement of AI adoption across member states aligns with its Agenda 2063, which envisions a prosperous Africa based on inclusive growth and sustainable development. AI is seen no doubt as a catalyst for achieving these goals by improving productivity and creating new opportunities across various sectors.
Notably, AI adoption will have a significant impact on economies across the African continent, where it will play a pivotal role in increasing efficiency in industries such as agriculture, mining, and manufacturing.
On the future outlook, the AU’s Al adoption marks a significant step forward for the continent. If successfully implemented, it could position Africa as a leader in the global Al landscape, driving innovation and sustainable development across its member states. However, the success of this initiative will largely depend on the commitment of individual countries to invest in the necessary infrastructure, education, and regulatory frameworks to support Al technologies.