Priorities for Africa: Artificial Intelligence Governance at the Global and National Level • Stimson Center
Publish Date: 2026-04-30 11:33:00
Source Domain: www.stimson.org
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) is highlighted as a fast-evolving technology with significant implications for peace and security, warranting serious deliberations on its global governance.
- Africa, accounting for only 2% of data centers, faces greater AI risks than benefits, including technological dependencies and harmful data extraction practices.
- The Global Digital Compact and the Pact for the Future emphasize the importance of AI governance in addressing issues like warfare, sustainable development, climate change, and the gap between the Global North and South.
- While global governance is necessary, local and regional frameworks, with strong institutions, are crucial for effective AI implementation and to mitigate its risks in Africa.
- Global AI governance aims to facilitate knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and regulation of lethal autonomous weapons systems (LAWS) to ensure equitable progress and security.
- Kenya and Ethiopia exemplify how weak state institutions can manipulate AI for oppressive ends, highlighting the necessity of robust mechanisms against such misuse.
- The African Union (AU) has laid out a Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy and is working towards establishing independent oversight institutions to manage AI impacts on the continent.
- Recommendations for African states include enhancing knowledge and technology sharing and establishing independent oversight for AI to safeguard against its harmful consequences and to promote its beneficial prospects.
