Africa is poised to take a leading role in the global AI landscape, with a focus on ethical and inclusive development. Dr. Mark Nasila, a prominent figure in the field, emphasized the importance of AI sovereignty during his keynote speech at the SingularityU South Africa Summit 2024.
According to Dr. Mark Nasila, by proactively influencing global AI frameworks and implementing ethical AI solutions that are specifically designed to meet the continent’s unique needs.
Africa must prioritize its AI independence by actively participating in the development of global AI standards and embracing ethical AI practices tailored to the continent’s specific requirements. This strategic approach will empower Africa to shape its technological future and ensure that AI advancements align with its unique cultural and social contexts.
He also highlighted that effective data and infrastructure management are essential “building blocks for achieving sovereignty” that African nations must focus on. This involves the capability to manage, protect, and utilize the continent’s data resources, particularly sensitive personal information.