The recently concluded AU-AI Continental Strategy Finalisation Writing Workshop, held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from 7 – 11 August 2023, stands as a pivotal moment in the collective effort to reshape Africa's trajectory through the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI). During this workshop, organised by the African Union Development Agency-NEPAD and the African Union High-Level Panel on Emerging Technologies (APET), we had the privilege of engaging with a diverse group of experts, each playing a crucial role in drafting the strategy that could redefine Africa's socio-economic landscape through responsible adoption of Artificial Intelligence.

These experts, who possess a wealth of knowledge across AI, governance, technology, and more, united with a shared vision to create an AI strategy that propels economic growth, technological innovation, and inclusivity throughout Africa. By leveraging AI for economic advancement, safeguarding data sovereignty, and actively addressing potential biases, the strategy aims to empower Africa to chart its AI journey ethically, responsibly, and effectively.

Ms Charlette N’Guessan, an AI Venture Builder and Tech Founder, provided a glimpse into the strategy's multifaceted impact. "Our objective with this strategy is to guide AU Member States in leveraging AI for economic growth while ensuring data sovereignty and mitigating discrimination and biases," she explained. "We're suggesting ways to nurture the growth of the local AI market, supporting our local talent pool and fostering ethical technological progress. By putting this strategy into action, we're paving the way for remarkable changes and advancements."

Resounding success stories across Africa illuminate the transformative power of AI across the continent. In Nigeria and Egypt, Aeryon Labs uses drones to monitor livestock health and location, thereby enhancing agricultural efficiency through data-driven insights that facilitate well-informed decision-making. Similarly, the Ghanaian government and Zipline deployed the COVID-19 vaccine to hard-to-reach areas within Ghana, using drones to distribute over one million vaccine doses in over 50 thousand deliveries. Additionally, telehealth initiatives like Imara Medical in South Africa utilise AI-powered telehealth technologies to provide reproductive healthcare services. Imara Health uses video conferencing to connect HIV-positive women with healthcare providers.

These initiatives underscore the undeniable power of adopting AI across various sectors, highlighting Africa's urgency to remain at the forefront of the AI revolution.

Dr Bhekani Mbuli, Researcher and AU-AI Continental Strategy Consultant, highlighted the core of inclusivity. "In formulating the African Union AI Continental Strategy, a central principle is addressing barriers to AI access in marginalised communities," he stated.

"African youth becoming well-educated in AI topics increases their potential for diverse contributions to global discussions, and the strategy could encourage their entry into governance." said Dr Chinasa Okolo, an AI Governance and Human-Centered AI Expert. "The AU-AI Continental Strategy will ensure that African youth have access to high-quality STEM education and are empowered to pursue thriving careers in AI and Machine Learning (ML) fields," she highlighted.

The AU-AI Continental Strategy Finalisation Writing Workshop marked a significant milestone in Africa's AI journey. The collaboration between these African AI experts has resulted in rich insights and strategies that will act as a catalyst for Africa's growth, inclusivity, and innovation. The conclusion of this workshop marks a turning point in Africa's journey towards becoming an AI-empowered continent.