The Executive Council of the African Union (AU) has approved its continental strategy for artificial intelligence (AI) and the African Digital Pact to stimulate the digital development of Africa.
"Our council approved yesterday the AU strategy for artificial intelligence and the strategy for the use of digital technologies, which will pave the way for Africa's use of digital technologies for development," said Amani Abou-Zeid, the AU Commissioner for Infrastructure, Energy, and Digitization, at the end of the 45th ordinary session of the AU Executive Council, preceding its 6th mid-year coordination meeting in Accra, Ghana's capital.
These strategies will provide guidance on using technology to address Africa's challenges, help accelerate numerous projects and programs, and protect against the unethical use of technology.
"Technology must help us preserve our identity, languages, and cultures, and be beneficial rather than harmful," said the Commissioner, adding that the strategies will create an environment conducive to the development and use of digital technology.
The AU policy will guide member governments in developing the necessary policy and regulatory frameworks for the sector.
"The strategies will help us create a single digital market and guide all sovereign countries on how to use digital technology to boost their development processes," added Amani Abou-Zeid.
