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Welcome!

Here at Afrika Techno Policy we explore the intersection of AI, law, and political economy in Africa through critical lenses. We are a collective of scholars, practitioners, and activists united by a commitment to examining the transformative potential and challenges of AI technologies on the African continent.

We come from diverse backgrounds - legal theorists, political economists and policy analysts - but we share a common goal: to foster dialogue on how AI is shaping and being shaped by African realities. 

We seek to move beyond techno-deterministic narratives, instead situating AI developments within broader historical, cultural, and political-economic contexts.

The rapid proliferation of AI technologies across Africa presents a pivotal moment for democratic rights. From automated healthcare diagnostics in rural clinics to predictive policing in urban centers, AI is reconfiguring social, economic, and political landscapes. Excitement about the potential is understandable but the implications of these shifts need more discussion and critique, particularly from African perspectives.

Through our blog, we aim to:

  1. Grapple with the techno-social dynamics changing our societies and our continent.

  2. Examine the legal and regulatory frameworks governing new technologies such as AI in different African jurisdictions.

  3. Analyze how AI intersects with existing political and economic power structures.

  4. Explore the potential that new technologies such as AI have in addressing development challenges while remaining cognizant of its limitations.

  5. Interrogate the ethics and politics of data collection, ownership, and use in African contexts.

  6. Highlight the place of African innovations in AI development and governance.

We are guided by a belief that technology is inherently political. The design, deployment, and regulation of AI systems encodes values, worldviews, and power relations. By unpacking these often hidden dimensions, we hope to contribute to more equitable, just, and context-appropriate AI governance in Africa.

Our analyses will draw on various critical traditions - from postcolonial theory to feminist technoscience - to shed light on the complex interplay between AI, law, and political economy. 

We invite readers - whether policymakers, technologists, activists, or concerned citizens - to engage with our ideas and contribute to this vital conversation. 

The trajectory of AI in Africa is not predetermined; it will be shaped by the collective choices we make today.

We welcome your thoughts, critiques, and insights as we navigate this complex terrain together.

You can reach us at afrikatechnopolicy@gmail.com or @AfrikaTechnoPol on X.

Scott Timcke, Nashilongo Gervasius, Andrew Rens, Nelson Otieno and Sagwadi Mabunda

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  1. Sub-Saharan Africa Business NetworkOctober 15, 2024 at 6:22 AM

    This is a fantastic initiative. Wishing the team behind this awesome initiative the very best. We are open to collaboration to drive the sustainable change we seek for Africa.

    ReplyDelete

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