POTENTIAL ROLE OF AFRICAN UNION IN DEVELOPMENT OF AI GOVERNANCE ACROSS THE CONTINENT

Auteurs

  • Joy Wanjiku Njoroge Lawyer and IT Law Specialist, Kenya

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46827/ejsss.v10i4.1822

Trefwoorden:

AI, AI governance, AI strategies

Samenvatting

This study addressed the fragmentation of AI governance approaches across Africa and examined the African Union's (AU) potential role in unifying these efforts. Using qualitative document analysis of AU publications and academic literature, the research explored the AU's continental AI governance approach, key initiatives, challenges, and future directions. Findings revealed that the AU made significant progress through initiatives such as the Continental AI Strategy (2024), the African Research Centre for Artificial Intelligence (ARCAI), the African Digital Compact, and the AU Data Policy Framework. However, challenges persisted, including regulatory fragmentation among member states and infrastructure disparities. The study discussed the AU's proposed governance mechanisms, including a high-level coordination mechanism on AI and adaptable regulation models, while noting threats from rapid global AI development and widening digital divides. It concluded that the AU's success in AI governance hinged on balancing innovation with ethics, addressing Africa-specific challenges, and fostering collaboration. Key recommendations included accelerating model AI regulation development, prioritizing digital infrastructure initiatives, enhancing ARCAI's role in building local expertise, and strengthening Africa's voice in global AI governance. This research contributes to the literature on AI governance in Africa, offering insights for policymakers on developing uniquely African approaches to inform global discussions.

 

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Biografie auteur

  • Joy Wanjiku Njoroge, {$affiliation)

    Joy Wanjiku Njoroge is a Kenyan lawyer and IT law specialist. She holds a Master's in Information and Technology Law and is certified as an Information Privacy Professional in Europe and Information Privacy Manager. Ms. Njoroge has extensive experience developing privacy policies and compliance strategies in Kenya and has served as a guest speaker, seminar leader, and researcher on topics including privacy legislation, regulation of the gig economy, and digital ethics. Her research interests encompass the intersection of law and technology, with particular emphasis on data protection, artificial intelligence regulation, and international cyber security. Ms. Njoroge aspires to contribute to policy-making in the technology sector and become a recognized expert in cyber policy, shaping regulations that protect both individuals and organizations from emerging digital threats.

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Gepubliceerd

2024-10-03

Nummer

Vol 10 Nr 4 (2024)

Sectie

Articles