Midrand, South Africa – During a compelling live debate on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Africa at the 5th Ordinary Session of the Sixth Pan-African Parliament, Hon. Elizabeth Masuku, a legislator from Zimbabwe, delivered a passionate call for a unified African strategy to harness AI’s potential while safeguarding its citizens.
Her key interventions focused on data protection, responsible innovation, and equitable access.”We must establish clear principles and policies for the collection, storage, and use of African data,” Hon. Masuku asserted, emphasizing the need for Africans to control their own data.
She stressed the importance of developing guidelines and regulations for AI development and deployment that prioritize transparency, accountability, and human rights.
Highlighting the need for “responsible digital innovation,” Hon. Masuku advocated for AI solutions that specifically address Africa’s unique challenges in healthcare, education, and economic development, while actively minimizing potential risks.
She cited Zimbabwe’s proactive steps, where the Ministry of Information, Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services is rolling out computers and internet access to remote schools.
The recent licensing of Starlink further underscores Zimbabwe’s commitment to fast-speed internet, set to benefit academic and business institutions.
Hon. Masuku urged the Pan-African Parliament to oversee the equitable rollout of AI across member states, ensuring that “everyone, regardless of location or socioeconomic status, has equal access to technology and digital literacy skills.”
Her resounding message: “The adoption of AI must leave no one and no place behind.”Concluding her intervention, Hon. Masuku emphasized the crucial role the Pan-African Parliament can play in shaping Africa’s AI future. “Let’s speak with one voice as Africa,” she implored, advocating for continental collaboration to maximize the benefits of AI for all.
