Innovation to Impact: Implementing Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policies for Africa’s Development
Abstract
This study highlighted the importance of African countries in implementing AI policies for the full use of technologies in their development. The study used a desktop research technique. This includes various literature sources for analyzing the current state and potential of AI policies in African countries. The study identified that AI policies in Africa are in their infancy stages, and very few African countries have AI policies in place. At present, only 8 countries in the continent have implemented AI policies. Countries such as Nigeria and South Africa do not have AI policies in place. The study also identified the lack of robust AI policy frameworks in African countries as a significant barrier to leveraging AI for development. This study offers valuable insights for policymakers and technology stakeholders in African countries. Furthermore, it will be beneficial for researchers and scholars interested in AI and AI policy and those contributing to scholarly literature in this field. Regarding field relevance, this research pertains to the disciplines of technology policy, public policy, development studies, sociology, and public administration. This study offers perspectives on what African countries should consider when developing their AI policies. The study also highlighted challenges that have undermined the adoption and effective implementation of AI policies across the continent. This study emphasized the necessity of collaborative action, visionary leadership, and evidence-based policymaking to create effective AI policies in Africa.
Keywords: Artificial intelligence, Africa, Development, Innovation, Technology policy.
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