As artificial intelligence (AI) begins to play a pivotal role in addressing major challenges in Africa, from agriculture to healthcare, Senegalese expert Seydina Moussa Ndiaye raises a critical concern: the threat of “digital colonization.” In an exclusive interview with TECHTALK AFRICA NEWS, Mr. Ndiaye warns that if foreign companies continue to control and utilize African data without involving local stakeholders, the continent could face a new era of dependency.
The Promise of AI in Africa
Mr. Ndiaye, one of the 38 members of the new UN advisory body on machine learning, shares his insights on how AI can be a game-changer for Africa. Drawing from his extensive experience in driving Senegal’s digital transformation in higher education and contributing to the Pan-African Strategy on AI, he explains the potential benefits.
“There are several African countries that are beginning to have a dedicated strategy for artificial intelligence. A pan-African strategy will soon be published, with a continental vision of AI development,” Mr. Ndiaye notes. He highlights the enthusiasm among young African entrepreneurs launching startups with a keen interest in AI. “This growing interest can be accelerated with international help.”
There are several African countries that are beginning to have a dedicated strategy for artificial intelligence. A pan-African strategy will soon be published, with a continental vision of AI development,”
Mr. Moussa Ndiaye
He underscores AI’s potential in sectors like agriculture and healthcare, where it can address critical issues such as personnel shortages. “AI could solve a lot of problems, especially the problem of a lack of personnel in the health sector. Additionally, AI can help in developing and preserving Africa’s cultural identity, making it better known and valued globally.”
The Dark Side: Digital Colonization
Despite the promising prospects, Mr. Ndiaye warns of significant threats. “The biggest threat for me is colonization. We may end up with large multinationals imposing their AI solutions throughout the continent, leaving no room for local innovation.”
Courtesy of Seydina Ndiaye
He explains that most data generated in Africa is controlled by foreign multinationals whose infrastructure is located outside the continent. This not only results in a loss of African talent but also poses a risk of Africa being used as a testing ground for new technologies. “If not supervised, we could have Africa being used as a Guinea pig to test new solutions, which could be a great threat to the continent,” he warns.
The Role of the UN Advisory Group
Mr. Ndiaye expresses hope that the UN’s new AI advisory group will address these issues. “We’ve started our work, and it’s really very open. These are high-level people who understand international issues well, and there are no taboo subjects,” he says. He stresses the importance of Africa’s voice in this group to ensure that international scientific cooperation includes and benefits the least developed countries. “Currently, there is a real gap, and if this is not resolved, we risk increasing inequalities.”
Addressing Digital Colonization: Key Concerns
To illustrate the scope of digital colonization, Mr. Ndiaye outlines ten major concerns:
1. Dominant Platforms: Foreign-controlled platforms can lead to a one-sided flow of information.
2. Data Exploitation: African data being stored and analyzed abroad raises privacy concerns.
3. **Limited Local Content:** African creators face challenges in producing content that reflects their cultures.
4. Algorithmic Bias: Western-biased algorithms marginalize African voices.
5. Cyber Dependence: Reliance on foreign digital tools makes economies vulnerable.
6. Limited Digital Infrastructure: Inequality in internet access exacerbates existing disparities.
7. Cybersecurity Threats: Limited resources make African nations more susceptible to cyberattacks.
8. E-commerce Challenges: Foreign dominance restricts local businesses’ online market share.
9. Intellectual Property Issues: Weak IP laws hinder African innovation.
10. Limited Local Participation: A shortage of skilled professionals leads to foreign control over tech roles.
Moving Forward
Overcoming these challenges requires a multifaceted approach involving government action, private sector participation, and community engagement. Mr. Ndiaye calls for fostering local innovation, building robust infrastructure, and ensuring equitable access to technology. “By doing so, Africa can reclaim its digital sovereignty and thrive in the global digital economy,” he concludes.
The warnings from experts like Mr. Ndiaye are a clarion call for Africa to take control of its digital future and avoid the pitfalls of a new form of colonization. With strategic action and international cooperation, the continent can harness AI’s potential while safeguarding its interests and cultural identity.
