Abdelkader Amara, president of Morocco's Economic, Social and Environmental Council (CESE) and the Union of African Economic and Social Councils and Similar Institutions (UCESA), has called for Africa to have a greater say in global innovation and artificial intelligence (AI) governance. Speaking at the China Economic and Social Forum in Hangzhou, Amara emphasized the need for increased African participation in international mechanisms that shape AI development and regulation. The forum, which took place on September 15, brought together 85 Chinese and foreign participants to discuss global governance issues.
Amara highlighted the importance of improving Africa's access to digital infrastructure, computing power, data, and research, as well as developing technology transfers and productive investments through Sino-African cooperation. He stressed that Africa's growing demographic and economic weight should be reflected in global AI governance. The continent's youth population, in particular, presents opportunities for technological transformation, Amara noted, contrasting with the aging populations of other regions. By leveraging its demographic advantages, Africa can play a significant role in shaping the future of AI.
The development of AI in Africa requires addressing the continent's infrastructure gaps, according to Amara. He advocated for more equitable access to digital infrastructure, technologies, data, research, and computing power for African countries. This, he believes, will enable Africa to harness the potential of AI and drive economic growth. Amara also emphasized the need for Africa to develop its markets, integrate regionally, and build its productive capacities to fully leverage its entrepreneurial potential.
Africa's natural resources, including critical minerals like cobalt and manganese, are essential for the development of technologies related to batteries and low-carbon economies. Amara highlighted the continent's role in driving energy, digital, and industrial transitions. By harnessing these resources and developing its markets, Africa can become a key player in the global economy. The continent's integration into global value chains and its ability to develop its productive capacities will be crucial in this regard.
Amara also focused on strengthening economic ties between China and Africa. He called for a shift from mere trade growth to partnerships focused on productive investment, technology transfer, innovation, applied research, and training. By leveraging China's industrial, technological, and financial capabilities, and Africa's human and economic resources, the two sides can create new opportunities for cooperation and value creation. This partnership can help drive Africa's economic growth and development.
The China Economic and Social Forum, which took place in Hangzhou, brought together participants from various backgrounds to discuss global governance issues. The 2026 edition of the forum saw 85 participants, including Chinese and foreign representatives, engage in discussions on global governance and cooperation. Amara's intervention at the forum underscored the importance of international cooperation in shaping the future of AI and driving economic growth.
Amara's call for Africa to play a greater role in global AI governance reflects the continent's growing aspirations for technological development and economic growth. By strengthening its participation in international mechanisms and leveraging its demographic and economic advantages, Africa can become a key player in shaping the future of AI and driving global innovation. The continent's ability to harness the potential of AI and develop its productive capacities will be crucial in achieving this goal.
Key points
- Abdelkader Amara calls for Africa to have a greater say in global AI governance.
- Amara emphasizes the need for improved access to digital infrastructure and technologies for African countries.
- Africa's demographic and economic weight should be reflected in global AI governance, according to Amara.
