Media and digital rights advocates across Africa are calling for a continent-wide framework to regulate artificial intelligence systems responsibly and ethically.
The appeal came during Africa Day commemorations, where experts warned that African countries risk becoming passive consumers of foreign-designed AI technologies if stronger local policies are not developed quickly.
Organizations supporting the initiative argued that artificial intelligence could greatly improve education, healthcare, agriculture, and governance across Africa, but stressed the importance of accountability, privacy protection, and transparency.
Technology policy experts also emphasized that no single African country has enough influence alone to effectively regulate rapidly advancing AI systems. They recommended stronger regional cooperation through the African Union and related institutions.
Analysts believe Africa’s approach to AI governance over the next few years could significantly shape the continent’s digital sovereignty, innovation capacity, and economic competitiveness in the global technology landscape.