Our Corespondent | Africa Guardian
At the 6th Privacy Symposium Africa in Harare (November 19–21), delegates faced a poignant moment when asked to translate “artificial intelligence” into their native languages. The long silence underscored Africa’s struggle to fully harness the potential of AI.
Organised by Unwanted Witness (UW), a Ugandan civic organisation, in partnership with the Media Institute of Southern Africa, the symposium aimed to foster discussions on data protection and privacy across the continent. With AI projected to contribute $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, Africa stands to gain significantly. Yet, realising this potential requires overcoming substantial hurdles, including fragmented regulations, data privacy issues, and inadequate infrastructure.
“There are issues like bias in AI systems, regulatory challenges, and concerns over data privacy. These need proper oversight and governance,” said Amaka Ibeji, AI governance expert and founder of PALS Hub. “Corporate leaders and policymakers must ensure that AI is used responsibly and ethically. If we get it right, AI can become woven into Africa’s social and economic fabric, unlocking sustainable growth that is innovative and culturally relevant.”
Currently, Africa lacks a unified framework to manage the opportunities and risks associated with AI. Lucianna Thuo, a technical specialist with the Electoral Law and Governance Institute for Africa, pointed to the slow progress: “There is a global compact on digital issues, and the African Union (AU) has followed suit with a similar mechanism. However, these don’t specifically address privacy and election issues. The conversation is shifting to how Africa can develop a cohesive approach at the regional level. The European Union, for example, has established such a framework.”
The absence of a robust, pan-African regulatory framework could hinder economic growth and jeopardise efforts to use AI to promote social equity. Ibeji explained: “Without clear, tailored regulations, individuals are more vulnerable to privacy violations, data misuse, and algorithmic bias. On the business side, uncertainty can discourage investment. Companies may hesitate to invest in AI without clear guidelines. Additionally, fragmentation—where each African country adopts its own rules—creates confusion and hampers scaling AI solutions across borders.”
Data governance is another concern. “Without strong, Africa-specific regulations, foreign companies can exploit our data, extracting value without providing much in return,” she said.
Despite these challenges, AI holds immense promise for Africa, particularly in addressing long-standing issues in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and education. Ibeji highlighted how AI could be a game-changer: “AI can support smallholder farmers with predictive analytics tailored to local climate conditions, improve healthcare access in rural areas through better diagnoses, and assist in interpreting indigenous languages to make technology more inclusive.”
However, unlocking these opportunities requires significant infrastructure investment. “Broadband connectivity must improve,” Ibeji said. “Fast, reliable internet is essential to unleash AI’s potential. Robust ICT infrastructure and secure digital identity systems are key to creating a solid foundation for AI applications.” She stressed the importance of designing AI tools that are accessible, affordable, and culturally relevant for local communities.
Africa can draw inspiration from global regulatory models, but adaptation is crucial. Thuo emphasized the need for homegrown solutions: “Many models from Europe and the United States are not tailored to the African market. Regulating these foreign models won’t work for us. We must create frameworks that reflect our unique experiences and perspectives.”
While frameworks like the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation provide useful insights, Africa must adapt them to local contexts. Thuo added, “The EU model is focused on safety, and China’s approach protects children’s digital access. Africa should develop a value-driven regulatory model that safeguards our priorities.”
Ibeji underscored the urgency of ensuring data sovereignty and security: “We need strong laws governing how data is collected, stored, and processed—laws that are tailored to our needs but also aligned with global best practices. Investing in local data centres and AI facilities is crucial to reducing dependence on foreign systems and maintaining control over our data.”
Cybersecurity is another priority. “Robust measures must be in place to protect sensitive information from breaches or misuse. Collaboration among African nations is key to creating shared standards and a unified approach to data sovereignty and security.”
Tailored regulatory frameworks present unique opportunities for Africa, Ibeji noted: “With the right legal structures, governments can create an environment that attracts both local and foreign investment in AI technologies. This will drive innovation and boost productivity in sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and education.”
She also emphasized AI’s potential to promote social equity: “Ethical guidelines can ensure AI systems are fair and accountable, reducing biases and preventing marginalised groups from being left behind. Tailored regulations can reflect Africa’s diversity, building trust and fostering social cohesion.”
However, poorly designed regulations could stifle innovation. “One-size-fits-all frameworks won’t work for Africa’s diversity. Policymakers must balance fostering innovation while safeguarding public interests,” Ibeji said.
Thuo agreed, noting, “AI is evolving rapidly, like all technology. We need to constantly ask whether we aim to regulate or set standards. The more we try to regulate, the more we risk falling behind. Innovation often outpaces the law.”
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