The Executive Council of the African Union (AU) has given the green light to its Continental Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy and the African Digital Compact, a significant step aimed at advancing digital development across the continent. This announcement was made by Amani Abou-Zeid, AU Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy, and Digitisation, during an interview on Friday at the 45th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council in Accra.
The session serves as a prelude to the 6th Mid-Year Coordination Meeting, a pivotal gathering for the union. Commissioner Abou-Zeid emphasised the importance of these newly approved strategies, noting, “Our council yesterday approved the AU strategy for artificial intelligence and the strategy for using digital technologies, which will set the path for Africa’s use of digital technologies for development.”
These strategies are designed to provide clear guidance on leveraging technology to address Africa’s unique challenges, accelerate various projects and programmes, and safeguard against the unethical use of technology. “The technology must help us preserve our identity, preserve our languages and cultures, and be helpful rather than harm us,” Abou-Zeid added.
Furthermore, the initiatives are expected to create a supportive environment for the growth and application of digital technology across the continent. The AU policy is set to assist member governments in developing the necessary policy and regulatory frameworks. Abou-Zeid highlighted that the strategies aim to establish a unified digital market and guide sovereign nations in utilising digital technology to enhance their development processes.
“There must be rules and regulations to punish the negative use of AI and digital technologies to prevent further abuse,” she stressed. Although seven African countries currently have AI policies, the continental body aspires for all member states to formulate and implement their own policies.
This strategic move by the AU underscores a commitment to harnessing digital technologies for the continent’s advancement while maintaining ethical standards and preserving cultural heritage. The approval of these strategies marks a significant milestone in Africa’s digital development journey.
