Designing Artificial Intelligence for Public Policy and Governance in Africa

This book examines the relationship between artificial intelligence and public policy in Africa. Bringing together academics and experts from multiple governance sectors, it assesses the ways in which AI is being utilised to achieve policy goals, the challenges and opportunities it presents, and how it is being governed. The book adopts a multidisciplinary approach, drawing on insights from political science, law, economics, data science, linguistics and engineering, to explore how national AI strategies are being adapted in different governance sectors across the continent. These include areas such as public safety, economic growth, electoral administration and public accountability. Attention is also given to feminist approaches to AI, and the likelihood of realising responsible AI for future public policy and governance in Africa. Practical policy recommendations are also highlighted, making this an important book for both practitioners and academics interested in African governance, public policy and AI. Gedion Onyango is a Research Fellow at the Firoz Lalji Institute for Africa, London School of Economics and Political Science, UK and a Senior Research Associate at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa.