African countries launch Sh7.8 trillion initiative to shape continent’s AI future
Move comes with official endorsement in principle to create the Africa AI Council, and will bring together stakeholders from both the public and private sectors
Africa countries have signed Declaration on Artificial Intelligence (AI), outlining a shared commitment among African nations to align national strategies with continental goals, safeguard data sovereignty, build digital infrastructure, and foster a sustainable AI innovation ecosystem.
The agreement was launched during the Global AI Summit on Africa in Kigali, Rwanda, on Monday, with support from the Gates Foundation.
The declaration was a cumulative effort of 50 plus countries facilitated by Qhala, Smart Africa, and Rwanda’s Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR).
Signed by 54 signatories, including the African Union, the declaration also commits them to the establishment of a Ksh 7.8 trillion (US$ 60 billion) Africa AI Fund.
The Summit was also marked by the official endorsement in principle to create the Africa AI Council, and will bring together stakeholders from both the public and private sectors and will be mandated to accelerate Africa’s digital future by driving AI governance and policy development.
It is a major step towards cross-border collaboration and AI talent development in Africa, with a focus on creativity, equity, and building the infrastructure and governance frameworks needed to ensure Africa’s rightful participation in the global AI space.
Overall, the Council will be dedicated to shaping AI strategies that address Africa’s core development priorities in areas like health, education, and agriculture while positioning the continent as a global leader. Its operational roadmap will be presented at the Transform Africa Summit 2025 in Kigali, reinforcing Africa’s commitment to shaping the global AI landscape.
Over 20 African leaders were present to signing the declaration, marking a major milestone for Africa’s AI future. Leaders present emphasised the need for inclusive, ethical AI systems that reflect the continent’s values and drive widespread socioeconomic development.
Commenting on the launch, Shikoh Gitau, CEO of Qhala, stated: “The launch of the Africa Declaration of Artificial Intelligence marks a milestone in shaping Africa’s AI governance and innovation landscape. This Declaration is timely, as Africa’s AI ecosystem is rapidly evolving but remains fragmented and underfunded. This will ensure that Africa takes its place in a leadership role in global AI development. Ensuring that AI technologies are designed and deployed responsibly to meet Africa’s unique needs. Qhala has always believed in the power of technology to level the playing field for all Africans through the creation of opportunities. This pivotal moment in Africa’s AI landscape will be a catalyst for unstoppable growth.”
Qhala, in conjunction with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Google, also convened over 45 policymakers, tech innovators, and industry leaders for a groundbreaking Digital Trade and Regulatory Sandbox Workshop. The Workshop explored how adaptive regulations and strategic investment can drive scalable solutions in sectors such as AI, Health Care, and cross-border trade.
Speaking also at the Summit, Lerato D. Mataboge, AUC Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy stated: “AI presents enormous opportunities for our continent, It has the potential to accelerate the attainment of Agenda 2063, stimulate large-scale socio-economic transformation, drive innovation, create new industries, generate new business and employment opportunities, support the preservation of Africa’s rich diversity of languages and cultures and help solving some of our complex and urgent challenges in healthcare, agriculture, education, energy ,climate adaptation and public service delivery and so much more”.
