Stakeholders push for human-centred AI, stronger data governance

Source Domain: guardian.ng

Stakeholders in academia, policy and digital governance have underscored the need for Africa-centred Artificial Intelligence (AI) policies, stronger data sovereignty and the preservation of indigenous knowledge systems.

The call was made during panel sessions on Volume 2: Our Digital Lives and Indigenous Pathways, part of the multi-volume anthology, Living Sustainably Here: African Perspectives on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), founded by scholar and sustainability advocate, Olatoun Gabi-Williams, at the Lagos Studies Association Conference

The volume was discussed during two sessions held on Wednesday and Friday, bringing together contributors to examine the intersection of technology, sustainability and indigenous knowledge.

The first panel session, moderated by Ms. Bisola “Bibi” Dere, was held on Wednesday and examined the implications of emerging technologies and their relationship with sustainable development in Africa. A second session followed on Friday, continuing conversations around indigenous pathways and digital futures.

Speaking, Gabi-Williams stressed that AI development should remain human-centred and environmentally responsible, noting that technological advancement should support rather than hinder social progress and sustainability.

“AI must be human-friendly and planet-centred. It must support civilisation and not become an impediment to the advancement of people and the planet,” she said.

According to her, African data should not be treated as “free raw material” for foreign entities, adding that governments across the continent should move beyond policy declarations to practical implementation.

Gabi-Williams also raised concerns about the risks posed by unchecked AI adoption, particularly for younger generations, stressing the importance of safeguards and regulations that protect children and vulnerable communities.

The scholar noted that while the volume acknowledges the opportunities presented by AI, it…

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