Smart Africa, a pan-African initiative aimed at driving sustainable socio-economic development through ICT, is spearheading efforts to help African countries develop cohesive and forward-looking Artificial Intelligence (AI) policies. As the digital landscape evolves rapidly, the alliance is encouraging African governments to craft national AI strategies that align with continental goals and global technological trends.
During recent policy dialogues and forums, Smart Africa emphasized the critical importance of AI in transforming economies, improving public service delivery, and fostering innovation. The initiative is advocating for AI to be integrated into national development plans, citing the technology’s potential to accelerate growth in key sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education, and finance.
To support this goal, Smart Africa is working closely with governments, private sector actors, civil society, and international partners to create policy frameworks that are inclusive, ethical, and adaptable to Africa’s diverse contexts. The organization is also collaborating with regional blocs and agencies like the African Union and UNECA to ensure alignment with broader continental frameworks such as the African Union’s Digital Transformation Strategy and Agenda 2063.
One of the major challenges highlighted by Smart Africa is the lack of capacity and infrastructure in many African countries to support AI development and governance. To address this, the initiative is offering technical support and capacity-building programs, including training for policymakers, regulatory guidance, and support in drafting national AI strategies. Through these efforts, Smart Africa aims to bridge the digital divide and promote equitable access to the benefits of AI across the continent.
Another key focus is ensuring that AI deployment in Africa remains people-centered. Smart Africa is advocating for AI strategies that prioritize ethical standards, data protection, transparency, and inclusivity. The goal is to prevent technological harm and ensure that AI tools do not exacerbate existing inequalities or infringe on human rights.
Smart Africa also stresses the need for cross-border cooperation, as AI and digital technologies transcend national boundaries. The initiative is calling for harmonization of regulatory approaches, shared infrastructure, and collaborative research to strengthen Africa’s collective capacity in AI.
So far, several countries including Rwanda, Ghana, and Tunisia have taken the lead by developing or piloting national AI strategies. Smart Africa sees these efforts as a foundation for scaling AI policy development continent-wide. It is also encouraging public-private partnerships to stimulate investment in AI research, innovation hubs, and talent development.
Smart Africa’s rallying of governments across the continent to advance AI policy marks a significant step toward digital sovereignty and sustainable development. By fostering a coordinated and inclusive approach, the initiative aims to position Africa not just as a consumer of AI technology but as an active participant and innovator in the global AI ecosystem.
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