Leaders in the tech industry, academics, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from various parts of Africa and other regions have come together in Lagos, Nigeria to discuss the opportunities and challenges presented by the advancement and application of artificial intelligence (AI).
The 2024 Pan-African AI Conference, held in Lagos in partnership with the United States, is considered a significant step towards Africa’s technological future.
During his opening speech, Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister for Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, emphasised the need to ensure that the “digital transformation journey is inclusive, fair, and focused on humanity.”
Tijani also revealed a $61,000 fund for Artificial Intelligence designed for Nigeria’s most promising AI startups. Lagos is often dubbed as the Silicon Valley of Africa.
The vibrancy of the city was reflected at the conference, as delegates from over 30 African countries engaged with their counterparts from the US to exchange ideas and contemplate the future of AI on the continent.
Dr. Seth Center, Acting Special Envoy for Critical and Emerging Technology, pointed out two primary challenges related to the future of AI.
“One challenge is to establish a safe and secure governance framework that will facilitate innovation without hindering it, instilling confidence in citizens worldwide to integrate AI into their lives,” he stated.
Center also highlighted the second challenge of creating an enabling business environment that can incentivise the private sector to develop and invest in Nigeria to facilitate the type of AI expansion that he believes is in all parties’ best interest.
The collaboration between Nigeria and the United States underscored the significance of intercontinental partnerships in propelling technological innovation. Both nations recognised AI’s immense potential for economic and social progress.