2.0 Rationale of the Study
At its core, AI ethics pertains to the moral principles and guidelines governing the development, deployment, and use of AI systems (Dwi Hadya Jayani 2019; Eke 2023). These principles encompass a wide range of considerations, including transparency, fairness, accountability, privacy protection, and the mitigation of bias (Gwagwa, Kachidza, et al. 2021). The importance of AI ethics cannot be overstated, particularly in the African context, where the rapid proliferation of AI technologies intersects with unique socio-cultural, economic, and political dynamics (Gwagwa, Kachidza, et al. 2021). Ethical considerations are essential to ensure that AI technologies are developed and utilised in a manner that promotes the well- being and empowerment of all individuals and communities across the continent (Brief 2023). By adhering to ethical principles, stakeholders can mitigate potential harms associated with AI, safeguard fundamental rights, and foster trust in these transformative technologies (Demaidi 2023). This study aims to examine existing ethical frameworks and regulatory approaches related to AI in Africa, identifying gaps, challenges, and opportunities for improvement. Key objectives include assessing the adequacy of current regulatory mechanisms in addressing emerging ethical challenges posed by AI.
Additionally, the study aims to explore avenues for enhancing multi-stakeholder collaboration and capacity-building efforts to promote ethical AI practices across the continent. It also analyses the intersection of AI with relevant guidelines and recommendations for ethical AI governance with the goal to shape AI’s future in Africa, ensuring it is ethical, innovative, rights- protective, and inclusive. In the global context of AI ethics, diverse ethical frameworks and principles have emerged to guide the responsible development and deployment of AI technologies (Ndzendze and Marwala 2023). For example, the UK’s Bletchley Declaration (UK Government 2023), inspired by the historic Bletchley Park, emphasises the importance of transparency, fairness, accountability, and inclusivity in AI governance and the United Nations through the United Nations Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (UNICRI) initiative, have aimed to promote human-centric AI systems that respect fundamental rights and dignity (International Telecommunication Union 2021). Other countries such as India and Canada, have pioneered approaches to AI ethics, reflecting regional nuances and priorities (Eke 2023). India’s National Strategy for AI underscores the need for ethical, transparent, and accountable systems to foster socio-economic growth
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Ethical Horizons - Mapping AI Policy in Africa May, 2024
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