According to the United Nations, Africa stands at the brink of a monumental transformation, with the potential to inject $2.9 trillion into its economy by 2030 through the harnessing of artificial intelligence (AI).
In a keynote address at the Global AI Summit on Africa last week, UN Under-Secretary-General and Special Envoy for Digital and Emerging Technologies, Amandeep Gill, emphasized AI’s capacity to create 11 million new opportunities and generate 500,000 jobs annually across the continent.
While optimistic about AI’s potential, Gill called for a cautious and structured approach. He highlighted the necessity of a multilevel governance framework to ensure that AI’s benefits are maximized while its risks are carefully managed. “This framework must involve responsible corporate behavior, robust national regulations, and a cooperative global dialogue,” he said.
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Gill also urged African leaders to establish an International Independent Scientific Panel on AI to promote a deeper understanding of AI’s risks and rewards, advocating for inclusive policymaking that includes diverse voices in shaping the future of the technology.
A key part of Gill’s address focused on equitable access to AI infrastructure and resources. He called for the creation of a Global Fund dedicated to building AI capacity across Africa, stressing that AI innovation should benefit all people, not just a select few. “Our vision as the United Nations is one of united progress, where the fruits of AI innovation are shared by all,” he remarked.
During the summit in Kigali, Gill met with Rwandan President Paul Kagame, praising the country’s leadership in the digital sector and its commitment to a sustainable, inclusive digital transformation for Africa.
