Africa finds itself at a critical juncture in the worldwide artificial intelligence economy. The region is dealing with a complicated balanc...
Africa finds itself at a critical juncture in the worldwide artificial intelligence economy. The region is dealing with a complicated balance between local development goals, international political dynamics, and influential corporate forces that are defining the digital environment. This conflict is particularly evident in the developing fields of AI and data regulation—policy areas that will decide who gains benefits, who maintains control, and whose needs technology ultimately addresses.
Artificial Intelligence is being celebrated as the upcoming breakthrough in efficiency and creativity. However, beneath the enthusiasm, a recurring trend emerges: Africa once more faces the danger of being seen as a buyer and provider of raw data instead of a creator and decision-maker. As multinational companies take hold of data, algorithms, and systems, the continent's reliance on external technologies grows – reflecting past exploitative economic ties.
The conversation occurred at the International Conference on Theory and Practice of Electronic Governance — a worldwide event organized by the United Nations University and this year hosted by Nigeria's National Information Technology Development Agency in Abuja.
Our input, a workshop titled “Beyond AI Consumption: Digital Governance Politics and Management in the Global South,” was organized by a group of scholars from the Global South supported by the Artificial Intelligence for Development initiative in Africa. The session addressed a critical question:
Will the developing nations merely absorb – and be overwhelmed by – this emerging AI system, or is there a possibility for them to forge a different route towards independence and control over their digital future?
The discussion was centered on three key provocations – data, economy, and politics.
Africa continues to be data-deficient, as a significant amount of the information produced on the continent is collected, analyzed, and kept outside of it, without providing tangible data benefits back to the region. Without ownership of our own data systems, decision-making and progress are limited.
Economy: Although Africa has a large population and an expanding pool of tech professionals, it remains in a low-value segment of the AI industry. The continent accounts for roughly 1–1.5 percent of global AI investment, despite supplying much of the data used to train worldwide models, as well as the natural resources and materials that support AI systems.
Politics: The international regulation of AI – including standards and safety measures – is controlled by Northern nations and major corporate platforms. If Africa is not involved in these discussions, it may end up merely following rules in an economy expected to contribute $15.7 trillion to global GDP by 2030.
These topics sparked intense discussion among scholars, government officials, and professionals. Several attendees expressed worry that Africa's digital path resembles its past pattern of resource exploitation. The most impactful analogy originated from Nigeria: Aliko Dangote's refinery – a tale of how, after many years of reliance, one African company managed to process its own resources. Others warned that confronting established global systems could carry financial risks, suggesting that working within current structures might produce faster results.
At the conclusion of the session, seven key priorities had been identified – insights relevant to Africa and, indeed, the broader developing world:
Turn this into a power question: Who controls data, digital infrastructure, and AI storytelling, and how does that shape the distribution of benefits? Can Africa shift from being exploited to taking charge?
Focus on the basics: Achieving digital independence involves building infrastructure, creating strong data systems, developing core models, enhancing organizational capabilities, and establishing pathways for digital skills. Public access and advantages should stay at the forefront.
Utilize our existing resources: Africa's advantages – traditional knowledge systems, cultural variety, cost-effective innovation, and community-oriented social structures – are essential elements for developing AI that fits the local context. The concept of AI frugality is an area that requires more investigation, considering the unique aspects and constraints of AI technologies.
Take a strategic approach: As emerging AI value chains develop, African officials and investors can make targeted, culturally sensitive investments that enhance local skills instead of creating reliance.
Select collaborators carefully: Cooperation should promote fairness and self-determination, rather than repeat exploitative practices. Alliances need to be built on the basis of technology sharing, open standards, and joint intellectual property.
AI governance: Global guidelines for artificial intelligence are currently being developed – primarily outside of Africa. It is crucial for Africa to be represented in these discussions to ensure our regulatory principles are included in international standards.
Take the lead with foresight and bravery: Autonomy in any area is not given; it is established through continuous effort, creativity, and determination.
The workshop ended with a commitment to develop an ICEGOV 2025 Resolution that outlines the Global South's stance on digital governance and to incorporate these viewpoints into United Nations and multilateral policy conversations.
It's a simple yet clever step – indicating that Africa needs to participate on the world stage not as a passive recipient, but as an active and equal decision-maker.
For business executives and government officials, the consequences are evident. Africa must not view AI as solely a technical or scholarly matter. It is an economic management challenge that will influence competitiveness, job creation, industrial growth, resource strategy, and financial stability for many years ahead.
Investment in AI infrastructure, whether public or private – including data centers and research environments – should be viewed as a key industrial strategy, similar in significance to energy or transportation in terms of national development. Moreover, this strategic approach needs to be responsible, open, and ensure the protection of African autonomy and progress.
The tale of Dangote's refinery shows us that developing digital capabilities and self-reliance requires time, resources (both tangible and intangible), and belief. The same applies to digital sovereignty. Should African governments and investors pursue this route with equal resolve, the continent may shift from being the world's digital supplier to playing a significant role—perhaps even shaping the rules—in the global AI economy.
Artificial intelligence will transform the way economies generate value and how communities are managed. The issue for Africa is no longer if they should get involved, but rather how – and under what conditions?
Shifting from mere consumption to self-governance is not just a moral duty; it is an economic requirement for a lasting digital future.
- Karuri-Sebina, Mlambo, Bonami, Malindini, and Ndaka are academics affiliated with the Universities of Witwatersrand and Edinburgh who are researching digital governance, innovation, and technology policy in developing regions.
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