African Union adopts continental strategy for AI

The African Union (AU) recently officially adopted the ‘Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy’. This strategy aims to promote the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in both the public and private sectors within member states.

This strategic endorsement took place during the 45th regular session of the AU Executive Council, held in Accra, Ghana on 18 and 19 July.

Harnessing AI for continental development

The new AI strategy aims to harness AI for the development of the continent and improve the well-being of African people. The strategy offers a series of recommendations, including the development of an integrated hardware and software environment specifically designed for AI and machine learning applications, which will facilitate the processing and deployment of data.

A key component of the strategy is establishing AI governance systems and encouraging AI applications in the public sector. In addition, the strategy focuses on mainstreaming AI into key sectors, as outlined in the AU Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It also places emphasis on developing AI skills, promoting research and innovation, and ensuring ethical AI principles that respect African culture and values.

Furthermore, the strategy encourages the private sector to adopt AI, with a special focus on creating an enabling environment for AI startups and ensuring the availability of high-quality datasets. Other key areas of focus include setting technical standards for AI safety, accelerating AI investments, strengthening regional cooperation, and promoting African participation in global AI governance.

Implementation planned over a period of 5 years

The implementation of the strategy is planned over a period of 5 years, from 2025 to 2030, divided into two phases. The first phase (2025-2026) will focus on laying the foundations, such as setting up governance frameworks and developing national AI strategies. The second phase (2027-2030) will focus on the practical implementation of key projects and initiatives.

While only six African countries – Algeria, Benin, Egypt, Mauritius, Rwanda, and Senegal – have currently developed standalone AI strategies, others, such as Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda, are making progress by integrating AI with emerging technologies such as blockchain. Countries such as Ethiopia, Ghana, Morocco, Nigeria, and Tunisia are also making significant progress in defining AI policies and establishing institutions to promote AI development.