South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola has emphasized the need for Africa to have a say in shaping global rules governing artificial intelligence. Speaking at the 81st UN General Assembly in New York, Lamola highlighted the continent's vast reserves of critical minerals and its young population as key factors in emerging technologies. He believes these resources can help bridge the gap between richer and poorer countries, while African states can contribute to AI research and innovation.
Lamola's comments come as Africa seeks to play a greater role in global AI governance. The African Union has adopted a Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy, which calls for an Africa-centered approach to the technology and the development of common governance frameworks to ensure its responsible use. This strategy aims to give the continent a greater voice in international negotiations on AI and digital policy.
South Africa is also developing its own AI industry, with companies like Johannesburg-based Lelapa AI building language technology designed for African languages. Lelapa AI focuses on smaller and more resource-efficient models that can operate with limited computing power. This development is part of a broader push by South Africa to establish itself as a leader in AI research and innovation.
Earlier this month, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa proposed that BRICS establish an international mechanism for the independent scientific assessment of AI. He also called for AI companies to face formal external checks and government oversight. This proposal is part of a broader effort to ensure that AI is developed and used responsibly.
Africa accounts for more than a quarter of UN member states, yet has no permanent seat on the UN Security Council. Lamola renewed Pretoria's push for broader reform of global institutions, particularly the UN Security Council. He emphasized the need for Africa to have a greater voice in global decision-making.
The African Union has brought together African diplomats in Geneva to coordinate the continent's position in international negotiations on AI and digital policy. The bloc said African countries could help shape global AI standards and rules by presenting a common position in international talks. This effort aims to ensure that Africa's interests are represented in global AI governance.
In conclusion, Africa's resources and young population make it a key player in emerging technologies like AI. The continent must have a say in shaping global rules governing AI to ensure that its interests are represented. With its own AI industry developing and a push for greater global influence, Africa is poised to play a major role in the future of AI.
Key points
- Africa's resources and young population make it a key player in emerging technologies like AI.
- The African Union has adopted a Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy to give the continent a greater voice in global AI governance.
- South Africa is developing its own AI industry, with companies like Lelapa AI building language technology designed for African languages.
