AI could help Africa address a slew of challenges, but unchecked it could reinforce structural inequalities globally and across the continent, writes Abubakar Abubakar Usman.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to rapidly transform global politics, economics, and security, with profound implications for international relations. Yet discussions on its relevance to African international relations remain limited. Given Africa’s position within the global order, it is critical to examine how AI will shape the continent’s external engagements, governance of transborder issues, and how Africa can participate in global AI regulation.

AI and African agency in the global order

AI’s role in African international relations can be analysed from two broad perspectives. First, AI could deepen existing structural inequalities, further marginalising Africa and exacerbating asymmetric and exploitative relationships with major global powers. Second, AI presents an opportunity for Africa to enhance intra-regional diplomacy, improve governance, and foster greater continental integration.

Historical parallels offer insight into AI’s potential impact. For instance, while the Internet revolution enhanced Africa’s global connectivity, economic integration, and digital diplomacy, it also reinforced structural dependencies. Governments in the Global North and tech giants have historically controlled Africa’s digital infrastructure, data governance, and cyber regulations. This has left the continent vulnerable to cyber threats, digital surveillance, and algorithmic biases that do not reflect its interests. As AI adoption accelerates, Africa must ensure that it is not merely a consumer of AI technologies but also a contributor to global AI governance that aligns with its own values and priorities.

The governance of AI in African international relations

Recognising both the transformative potential and inherent risks of AI, the African Union (AU) launched the Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy in July 2024. This framework is built around five core themes: maximising AI benefits, building AI capabilities, mitigating risks, fostering public and private sector investments, and enhancing regional and international cooperation. The AU’s proactive stance signals a collective recognition of both the opportunities and challenges posed to Africa by AI.

While initiatives such as AI adoption in public and private sectors, AI applications in priority industries, and the development of a vibrant AI startup ecosystem appear feasible, addressing AI-related risks presents far greater challenges. Historical precedents in technology adoption reveal persistent issues related to gender inequality, inclusion, safety, and security. According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Africa continues to lag in cybersecurity infrastructure, legal frameworks, and public awareness, making the continent highly vulnerable to cyber threats and digital exploitation.

AI, authoritarianism, and security risks

One critical challenge overlooked in the AU’s strategy is the potential abuse of AI by authoritarian governments. The recent surge in military takeovers and the prevalence of pseudo-democracies exacerbates the risks. In the hands of such regimes, AI technologies could enable more sophisticated methods of political control, censorship, and mass surveillance, deepening existing governance deficits.

Additionally, AI diffusion in Africa poses security risks beyond state actors. According to the latest Global Terrorism Index, 10 of the 20 most terrorism-affected nations are in Africa. If AI technologies are not properly regulated, they could be exploited by terrorist organisations operating across the continent. Autonomous systems and generative AI could enable these groups to evade detection, enhance operational sophistication, or spread propaganda with greater efficiency.

Given Africa’s current position as a latecomer in AI development, the real challenge lies in translating the AU’s governance framework from policy to practice. The success of this strategy will depend on sustained investment, robust regulatory enforcement, and Africa’s ability to assert its interests in global AI governance to safeguard both its digital and political sovereignty.

AI and African cultural diplomacy

A final but significant dimension of AI in African international relations is its potential to shape African values, identity, and cultural diplomacy on the global stage. AI algorithms and parameters are designed by humans. Designers and engineer’s values, identities, and cultural affinities are embedded into the technology, often unconsciously. Since African governments and firms currently have limited control over AI development, the continent risks seeing its cultural narratives sidelined or misrepresented.

To address this, the AU and African states must leverage diplomatic channels to ensure that AI technologies entering African markets reflect African values, languages, and cultural diversity rather than reinforce external hegemonies. By actively shaping AI ethics and governance, Africa can influence AI development to align with its strategic, political, and cultural objectives. A promising step in this direction is South Africa’s National Artificial Intelligence Policy Framework, launched in August 2024, which underscores the importance of AI in advancing national and regional priorities.

Continental and regional bodies can facilitate the collection and integration of diverse African datasets to train AI models and ensure the preservation of African languages. This initiative would not only safeguard linguistic and cultural heritage but also contribute to bridging the digital divide and promoting digital inclusivity.

Toward an inclusive AI future for Africa

While the nexus between AI and African international relations remains underexplored, it is evident that the successful adoption of AI technologies in Africa requires greater international cooperation and strategic partnerships. The AU’s Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy marks an important step toward regulating and developing AI on the continent. However, the real challenge lies in implementation—ensuring that all regions and states actively participate and benefit equitably.

From a legal perspective, the European Union’s AI Act could serve as a useful model for the AU to establish clear regulatory frameworks, ethical guidelines, and risk assessment mechanisms. Adapting such a framework to Africa’s unique socio-political and economic contexts will be crucial in balancing innovation, security, and governance. Ultimately, Africa’s ability to shape AI governance will determine whether it remains a passive recipient of external technologies or emerges as a key actor in the global AI landscape.

Photo credit: Pexels