Smart Africa Charting the Course for Ethical AI at MWC 2025
Smart Africa, under the leadership of Director General Lacina Koné, showcased a forward-thinking vision for the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the African continent at the 2025 Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona. The event served as a crucial platform to solidify Africa’s commitment to responsible AI development and deployment. The central focus was the establishment of an African AI Council, a collaborative initiative designed to shape the continent’s AI landscape, ensuring that it addresses unique challenges and opportunities.
This initiative, which has been in development since October 2024 with the support of Smart Africa’s steering committee, marked a significant milestone at the MWC. It builds upon discussions initiated at the World AI Summit in Paris, where an initial concept note was presented. The council aims to foster ethical and inclusive AI practices while aligning technological advancements with Africa’s specific needs.
The African AI Council: A Strategic Roadmap
The primary objective of the African AI Council is to harmonize public policies related to AI, cultivate robust technological partnerships, and ensure that AI solutions are strategically deployed to address Africa’s top priorities. A comprehensive one-year roadmap is scheduled for release in July. This roadmap will outline key strategic pillars that include enhancing computational capabilities, developing data centers, focusing on algorithm development, establishing clear regulatory frameworks, and structuring the AI market to foster growth and innovation. The roadmap reflects a commitment to building a sustainable and beneficial AI ecosystem across the continent.
The council’s focus highlights the need to consider specific challenges and opportunities. For instance, addressing infrastructural deficits in digital literacy programs is vital. These challenges should be carefully addressed to ensure that AI benefits all segments of African society. In addition, the council hopes to streamline access to funding and training programs to ensure that the AI sector creates opportunities that will benefit the region.
Prioritizing Utility and Inclusivity in AI
As the global race for advanced AI technology accelerates, Africa is strategically adopting a pragmatic approach. Lacina Koné emphasized the importance of “useful” AI over purely powerful AI, recognizing the continent’s unique context. This distinction acknowledges Africa’s specific realities, including varying literacy rates, uneven digital access, and persistent socioeconomic challenges.
Smart Africa advocates for an inclusive, ethical, and sustainable AI approach to prevent exacerbating existing inequalities. The goal is to harness AI’s potential for positive social and economic transformation. The initiative will focus on providing AI-driven solutions for healthcare, education, agriculture, and finance, creating more accessible and affordable services. This approach is essential to make sure that AI empowers African citizens and supports the continent’s sustainable development goals.
Looking Ahead: A Future Powered by Responsible AI
The African AI Council represents a significant step toward shaping a future where AI drives inclusive growth and addresses Africa’s most pressing challenges. Smart Africa’s commitment to ethical and sustainable AI development sets a vital precedent. This proactive approach is critical as AI evolves, and the council’s collaborative model shows the importance of international cooperation.
By focusing on utility, inclusivity, and ethical practices, Smart Africa is not only positioning the continent to benefit from AI’s transformative potential but also paving the way for a future where technology serves as a catalyst for sustainable development, economic progress, and social good across Africa.
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