Africa’s AI Odyssey: Surfing the waves of innovation amidst digital storms

 In September 2024, the High-level Advisory Body on AI issued its final report on Governing AI for Humanity at the UN, emphasizing the ethical and inclusive development of AI globally. The inclusive development of AI is critical for sub-Saharan Africa as most AI systems in the region are developed and hosted abroad (for instance, Nigeria is one of the most technologically advanced countries in Africa, but more than ninety percent of the technological software used in the country are imported). The UN General Assembly also adopted the Pact for the Future, including the final version of the Global Digital Compact, both of which could bridge the digital divide in Africa and support the region’s growth and resilience in the AI age. The Office of the Secretary-General’s Envoy on Technology and the UNDP released the Universal DPI Safeguards Framework: A Guide to Building Safe and Inclusive DPI for Societies, vital for African nations to ensure their digital ecosystems are secure, transparent, and beneficial for all citizens.