AI Ethical Policy in Africa
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Date
2025-10-10
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Digital Government: Research and Practice
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a rapidly growing sector within the African innovation ecosystem. Amidst rapid
technological advancements in the development of AI solutions in African countries, it has been noted that AI
technologies pose ethical quandaries. As a result, there is a need to identify these AI ethical policies in Africa and
explore their benefits and detrimental in the AI ecosystem. Therefore, this study utilized both qualitative and
quantitative methodologies using desk research and AI stakeholdersǯ engagement through key information
interviews and focus group discussions, case studies, online surveys, and webinar sessions. A total of 300
publications and 165 participants contributed to the study. The result shows that about 12% of the collected
responses indicate that the adoption, development, and use of AI ethical policies in African countries are in the
initial stage. The AI ethical policies are beneficial; however, the following challenges hinder their adoption and
development, which include limited understanding of AI, funding, lack of access to data, inadequate infrastructure,
such as internet connectivity, and skills shortage. The study recommends the enhancement of collaborative
networks for resource sharing within the AI stakeholdersǯ ecosystem and the development of adequate
infrastructure that enhances the adoption of AI ethical policy.
Sustainable Development Goals
9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
10: Reduced Inequalities
16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
17: Partnerships for the Goals
Keywords
Artificial Intelligence: Ethical Policy: Africa: AI Stakeholders