Africa's Ascending Impact on Formulating the EU Artificial Intelligence Policy
The global race to develop AI policies and regulations is underway, and Africa is not left behind. While Mauritius and Egypt have already formulated AI laws, other African nations such as Nigeria and Kenya are in the process of creating their own regulatory frameworks.
The European Union (EU) has taken a significant step in this direction with the drafting of an AI Treaty, aimed at ensuring ethical and trustworthy AI development and deployment. The treaty, scheduled for ratification on September 5, 2024, is a global standard-setter and is expected to influence other regulatory frameworks worldwide. Notably, the EU AI Treaty was drafted with contributions from countries outside the EU, including the US, Argentina, Israel, Japan, and Uruguay.
However, Africa's role in this critical discussion remains uncertain. The exclusion of Africa in the development of the treaty risks exacerbating data dependency and perpetuating racial biases in AI development. This is a concern, as biased data used to develop AI algorithms could disproportionately affect African populations and other minority groups.
To address this, the African Institute for Data Science (AIDS) is promoting responsible data practices and has programs designed to help African states build capacity for AI. Furthermore, African nations are actively participating in discussions on responsible artificial intelligence regulation, with Rwanda and Ghana leading the way. These nations are developing national AI strategies that align with global AI governance principles and emphasize fairness, transparency, and accountability.
Moreover, regional collaborations could play a crucial role in shaping Africa's AI regulations. Kenya could develop its AI regulations within the context of the East African Community (EAC), which is advocating for further regional integrations. Similarly, African nations have the potential to collaborate and establish a regional framework, such as within the Economic Community of West Africa (ECOWAS).
Regulators worldwide are struggling to develop appropriate frameworks for the AI sector due to the rapid pace of advancements. The risk of the AI regulatory gap in Africa widening if the continent does not engage equally with other countries. The Malabo Convention, ratified by the African Union (AU) in 2023, guides AI policy on the continent but is not sufficient.
As we move halfway through 2024, Africa's progress in AI regulations remains uncertain. However, with initiatives like those in Rwanda and Kenya, and support from organisations like AIDS, there is hope for a future where AI development in Africa is guided by principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability. All signatories to the treaty must ensure responsibility and accountability for the impacts AI has on human rights, and Africa should aim to have a seat at the table in this critical discussion.
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