AI presents Africa with a major opportunity to overcome its development challenges through innovative solutions. Countries like Côte d'Ivoire, among the most forward-thinking, are implementing strategic initiatives to leverage this emerging technology.
Côte d'Ivoire presented its national strategy for artificial intelligence (AI) and data governance on Thursday, March 13. After eight months of preparation, the document was officially handed over to Prime Minister Beugré Mambé (photo, center) for government adoption and its upcoming launch. This initiative marks a turning point in the country’s digital policy.
"This launch marks an important milestone in our dynamic and conscientious approach to Côte d’Ivoire’s digital transformation in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, characterized by emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence," said Robert Beugré Mambé.
Fundamental Pillars and an Ambitious Five-Year Action Plan
Côte d'Ivoire’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy is built on three fundamental pillars. The first focuses on investment in skills and infrastructure, particularly through the construction of data centers and sovereign cloud systems to host and secure local data. The second pillar is regional and social inclusion, ensuring that all cities and social groups benefit from digital transformation. The third pillar addresses governance, aiming to establish a legal and ethical framework for AI development to ensure optimal and responsible growth conditions.
The implementation of the National AI Strategy will span five years. Among the initial actions is the creation of a National Committee for AI and Data Governance, tasked with overseeing concrete projects to assess AI’s impact on key sectors such as agriculture, health, and education. Another major initiative is the establishment of an AI hub, which will include a startup incubator and a specialized training center.
A key element of this strategy is the introduction of a "Safe AI" label, designed to establish a legal and ethical framework for AI solutions in Côte d'Ivoire. Additionally, a mapping of AI resources in the country, covering both infrastructure and expertise, will be developed to monitor sectoral progress.
Data Governance: A Complementary Pillar
Data governance is an essential complementary component of the strategy, with a focus on several key areas, including data culture, ethics, security, and system interoperability. The creation of data centers and the strengthening of national connectivity are central to this strategy, ensuring effective and secure data management. The objective is to enhance the value of data while guaranteeing a secure framework for its use.
Through this dual strategy, Côte d'Ivoire aims to become a model for inclusive, ethical, and responsible AI, accelerating its digital transformation to build a united and prosperous nation by 2030. Although the investment amount required for implementation has not yet been disclosed, it is clear that the country is committed to investing in this emerging technology to drive development.
Once implemented, Côte d'Ivoire will join the select group of African countries that have launched a national AI strategy, including Benin, Egypt, and Morocco, as well as other nations such as Rwanda, Senegal, and Nigeria, which have already announced preparations for AI adoption.
By Samira Njoya,
Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji
