Initiative overview
The Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy is designed to address both the opportunities and risks associated with AI in Africa, particularly its potential for socio‑economic transformation and development. It recognises challenges such as limited infrastructure, data availability, skills gaps, and inequalities, while also highlighting AI’s role in sectors like agriculture, health, education and public services.
The strategy involves a wide range of stakeholders, including the African Union Commission, Member States, regional organisations, private sector actors, academia, and international partners. It calls for coordinated action across these actors, including capacity building, investment mobilisation, and the development of national AI strategies aligned with continental priorities.
Implementation is structured around fifteen action areas and a phased approach between 2025 and 2030. It includes the creation of governance systems, support for research and innovation, development of infrastructure and datasets, and promotion of skills and talent. Monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, including an African AI readiness index and a midterm review in 2027, are planned to track progress.
The strategy also places strong emphasis on governance, ethics, and oversight. It promotes a multi-tiered governance framework grounded in human rights, inclusion, and transparency, and recommends tools such as impact assessments, regulatory frameworks, and institutional mechanisms to ensure responsible, safe and accountable AI development and use across the continent.
