Africa must take charge of AI development – Deputy Communication Minister

The Deputy Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Mr. Mohammed Adams Sukparu, has emphasized that the African continent must not remain a passive consumer of AI technologies developed elsewhere.

Speaking at TechExpo Africa 2025, held at the Accra Digital Centre last Friday, he stated, “African nations must take deliberate steps to determine how AI is developed, deployed, and governed across the continent.”

Addressing the theme “The Future of AI in Africa: Who Holds the Power to Decide?”, the Deputy Minister highlighted Ghana’s progress in expanding broadband access, advancing e-governance, and deepening digital inclusion nationwide.

Mr. Sukparu referenced Ghana’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, which provides a comprehensive framework for ethical AI development, data protection, privacy safeguards, and responsible innovation aligned with national priorities.

He called for stronger support for local innovators, enhanced regulatory systems, and deeper collaboration among government, industry, academia, and development partners.

The Deputy Minister stated that Africa’s technological sovereignty hinges on investing in homegrown AI solutions, promoting transparency in algorithms, and ensuring citizen involvement in shaping the ethical boundaries of AI use.

Mr. Sukparu acknowledged the vital role of the African diaspora in accelerating the continent’s technological advancement, describing TechExpo Africa as a model platform where global expertise meets local talent to develop sustainable digital solutions.

He concluded with a call for African-led cooperation through organizations like ECOWAS and the African Union, urging stakeholders to commit to building an AI future rooted in African values, equity, innovation, and shared prosperity.