Côte d’Ivoire has unveiled its national strategy for artificial intelligence (AI) and data governance. After eight months of preparation, the document was officially presented to Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé, with a view to its adoption by the government and its upcoming launch.
Côte d’Ivoire’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy is built on three fundamental pillars:
The first pillar focuses on investment in skills and infrastructure, notably through the construction of data centers and sovereign cloud systems to host and secure local data.
The second pillar emphasizes regional and social inclusion, aiming to ensure that all cities across the country and all social groups benefit from digital transformation.
Finally, the third pillar concerns governance, with the objective of establishing a legal and ethical framework for AI development, to guarantee optimal and responsible growth conditions.
“This launch marks an important milestone in our dynamic and conscientious approach to the digital transformation of our beautiful Côte d’Ivoire, in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution marked by emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence,” highlighted Robert Beugré Mambé.
The implementation of the strategy will span five years.
Among the initial actions are the creation of a National Committee for AI and Data Governance, tasked with overseeing concrete projects to assess AI’s impact on key sectors such as agriculture, health, and education. Another major project involves the establishment of a dedicated AI hub, which will include an incubator for start-ups and a specialized training center.
A key element of this strategy is the introduction of a “Safe AI” label, aimed at establishing a legal and ethical framework for the development of AI solutions in Côte d’Ivoire. Additionally, a mapping of the country’s AI resources—covering both infrastructure and skills—will be implemented to monitor the sector’s progress.
