The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission Mahamoud Ali Youssouf has called for joint efforts to mobilise resources and establish a regulatory policy to advance the development of artificial intelligence (AI) in Africa.
The chairperson made the call during the AI Summit on Africa, which opened Thursday in the Rwandan capital of Kigali, according to a statement the continental body released over the weekend.
He said the AU has set a clear policy direction to integrate AI into Africa’s development agenda, leveraging AI as a catalyst for economic growth, innovation, and inclusive digital transformation.
With the operationalisation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Digital Trade Protocols, Africa’s AI market is poised for exponential growth said the chairperson noting that AI is expected to play a pivotal role in digital trade, enhancing efficiency, fostering innovation, and generating new business opportunities for Africa’s youth and entrepreneurs.
Recently endorsed by the AU Executive Council, the Continental AI Strategy underscores Africa’s commitment to leveraging AI for socioeconomic progress. This strategic framework establishes a foundation for AI governance and innovation at national, regional, and continental levels, fostering an ecosystem that is inclusive, sustainable, and resilient.
Rejecting claims that AI sovereignty in Africa is a myth, Youssouf stressed the importance of financing AI startups and harmonizing policies across countries.
He said one of the key priorities for AI in Africa is to develop AI solutions that reflect African languages and cultural diversity.
“This is crucial to ensuring inclusive AI adoption and preventing digital exclusion. AI-driven innovations must serve all Africans, facilitating equitable participation in the digital economy,” he added.
MG/as/APA