Leading tech experts, policymakers, and entrepreneurs from across Africa and beyond gathered in Lagos, Nigeria, for the 2024 Pan-African AI Conference to explore the opportunities and challenges posed by the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI). Co-hosted by Nigeria and the United States, the event marked a significant milestone in Africa’s journey toward a technologically advanced future.
Nigeria’s Minister for Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, set the tone in his opening remarks, emphasizing the importance of ensuring AI’s development is inclusive and focused on human needs. “For us to truly harness artificial intelligence to our collective benefit, we must be deliberate and collaborative in our approach,” Tijani said.
Tijani also announced the creation of a $61,000 fund dedicated to supporting Nigeria’s brightest AI startups, a move that reflects the country’s commitment to fostering homegrown innovation in the tech space. Lagos, often referred to as the “Silicon Valley of Africa,” served as the ideal backdrop for the event, with its thriving tech ecosystem and vibrant entrepreneurial spirit.
The conference brought together delegates from more than 30 African nations alongside their counterparts from the US, providing a unique platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration. Discussions centered on how AI can be leveraged to drive economic growth, improve public services, and address pressing challenges such as inequality and climate change.
Dr. Seth Center, Acting Special Envoy for Critical and Emerging Technology, highlighted two key challenges for the future of AI: establishing a safe and secure governance framework and creating an enabling environment for business and investment. “We need to build confidence in AI by ensuring citizens feel secure using it in their daily lives,” Center said. “At the same time, we must create a business environment that encourages private sector investment in AI development.”
The Nigeria-US partnership underscored the importance of cross-continental cooperation in driving technological innovation. Both nations acknowledged the transformative potential of AI for economic and social development, with Africa poised to play a leading role in shaping the global AI landscape.
As the conference continues, delegates will explore how to build the necessary infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and talent pool to ensure that Africa fully embraces the opportunities AI presents, while also addressing its inherent challenges.
- Tags: Africa, AI, conference, Nigeria, World
