AU Endorses Comprehensive AI Strategy for Continental Growth and Innovation

• The AU’s AI strategy prioritizes creating a robust AI infrastructure and governance systems, aligning with Agenda 2063 and the UN’s SDGs.
• AI adoption in the private sector is emphasized, with a focus on skills development, research, and ethical AI principles respecting African values.
• The strategy includes a two-phase implementation plan, with the first phase focusing on governance frameworks and the second on executing key initiatives.

The African Union (AU) has formally adopted a groundbreaking “Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy,” a comprehensive blueprint aimed at fostering AI adoption across the public and private sectors within its member states. 

This strategic initiative was announced following the AU Executive Council’s 45th Ordinary Session, held from July 18 to 19, 2024, in Accra, Ghana. The strategy is a critical step towards harnessing AI to promote development across the continent and improving the well-being of its people.

Establishing AI Infrastructure and Governance

One of the central recommendations of the strategy is the establishment of an integrated hardware and software environment specifically designed for AI and machine learning workloads. 

This will enable efficient data processing and deployment, a foundational aspect of AI adoption across Africa. Moreover, the strategy underscores the importance of developing robust AI governance systems.

 It promotes the integration of AI into key sectors identified in the AU’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), aiming to align AI advancements with broader developmental goals.

AI Adoption and Innovation by Private Sector

The tactic also promotes the adoption of AI in the private sector and creates a friendly environment for AI start-ups while ensuring availability of high-quality datasets. 

It also underscores the importance of advancing AI skills and fostering research and innovation throughout the continent. The strategy calls for ethical principles of AI that uphold African culture and values so that AI technologies can contribute positively to society.

Regional Cooperation and Investment Acceleration in AI

In addition, another important area covered by the strategy is setting technical standards for safety and security in relation to artificial intelligence.

It points out that there should be more investments made towards artificial intelligence as well as stronger regional collaborations with Africa taking part in global governance systems over this issue than ever before. These factors are necessary if Africa wants to become a leader in inclusive responsible development of AI worldwide.