Regional Leaders Push for Trust, Data Sovereignty in Africa’s AI Future

Stakeholders at the fourth East African Community (EAC) Regional Science, Technology and Innovation Conference have emphasised that the future of artificial intelligence (AI) in the region will depend not only on connectivity but on deeper alignment of data systems, governance frameworks, and shared regional ambition.

The conference, held under the theme AI4EAC, brought together policymakers, researchers and technology leaders to explore how AI can be harnessed to address pressing challenges across East Africa.

Speaking at the opening session, Moses Alobo noted that while Africa’s AI landscape is rich in talent and already delivering measurable impact in sectors such as healthcare, agriculture and climate innovation, the region continues to face significant barriers in scaling these solutions.

He stressed that moving from isolated success stories to broad, scalable impact would require a shift in how digital ecosystems are structured and managed across countries.

According to Alobo, one of the key priorities is to treat digital infrastructure and data systems as shared public assets that can support regional innovation rather than fragmented national efforts.

He also highlighted the importance of data sovereignty, calling for frameworks that enable secure and responsible access to high-quality data needed to train and deploy AI solutions effectively.

Beyond infrastructure and data, the issue of trust emerged as central to the conversation. Participants underscored the need for ethical, African-led AI systems that reflect local realities and build public confidence.

Speakers at the event agreed that AI development in the region must go beyond technology, focusing instead on how countries collaborate to solve common problems and unlock economic opportunities.

Further discussions are expected to continue on March 31 during a side event organised in partnership with AUDA-NEPAD, where participants will examine how Africa’s Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy can be leveraged to translate these priorities into practical outcomes.

The conference continues in Kigali with a strong focus on regional cooperation as the foundation for a digitally integrated East Africa.

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