AI Ethical Policy in Africa

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a rapidly growing sector within the African innovation ecosystem. Amidst rapid technological advancements in the development of AI solutions in African countries, it has been noted that AI technologies pose ethical quandaries. As a result, there is a need to identify these AI ethical policies in Africa and explore their benefits and detrimental in the AI ecosystem. Therefore, this study utilized both qualitative and quantitative methodologies using desk research and AI stakeholders’ engagement through key information interviews and focus group discussions, case studies, online surveys, and webinar sessions. A total of 300 publications and 165 participants contributed to the study. The result shows that about 12% of the collected responses indicate that the adoption, development, and use of AI ethical policies in African countries are in the initial stage. The AI ethical policies are beneficial; however, the following challenges hinder their adoption and development, which include limited understanding of AI, funding, lack of access to data, inadequate infrastructure, such as internet connectivity, and skills shortage. The study recommends the enhancement of collaborative networks for resource sharing within the AI stakeholders’ ecosystem and the development of adequate infrastructure that enhances the adoption of AI ethical policy.

Affiliated Institutions

• African Union ET
• French Institute for Research in Africa NG
• Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology TZ
• Makerere University UG

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