Smart Africa Launches Africa AI Council to Drive Continental AI Strategy – Nominations Now Open

In a bold step towards shaping Africa’s AI future, the Smart Africa Steering Committee has officially endorsed the creation of the Africa AI Council and its Thematic Working Groups. This multi-stakeholder, African-led advisory body will steer continental AI strategies, influence policy frameworks, and mobilize investment and partnerships to accelerate AI adoption and innovation across Africa.

The move underscores Africa’s commitment to inclusive growth, economic competitiveness, and digital sovereignty in the global AI race.

“This initiative reflects Africa’s ambition to shape its own digital destiny,” said Lacina Koné, Director General and CEO of Smart Africa.
“By drawing from a rich pool of African expertise, the Africa AI Council will ensure AI development aligns with our unique needs and aspirations.”

Thematic Working Groups: Call for Nominations

Smart Africa has opened public nominations to recruit a diverse, representative body of experts for its six priority focus areas:

1. Infrastructure → Data centers, cloud computing, HPC, and connectivity
2. Talent → AI education, skills training, workforce development, and capacity building
3. Data → Governance, dataset creation, data ethics, and quality standards
4. Market → AI commercialization, startups, business models, and ecosystem development
5. Investment → Funding mechanisms, venture capital, development finance, and PPPs
6. Governance → Regulation, standards, policy frameworks, and ethics

Who Can Apply

• Eligible Applicants:
  • AI researchers, policy experts, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, academics, and civil society practitioners
• Requirements:
  • Proven leadership in AI, digital innovation, policy, or ecosystem development
  • Demonstrated contributions to advancing Africa’s AI agenda

Members of the Africa AI Council and its Working Groups will shape continental priorities while ensuring that African-led innovation and local contexts drive decision-making.

Key Dates & Process

• Nominations Open: Now
• Closing Date: Friday, September 12, 2025
• Shortlisting: Selected nominees will be contacted directly
• Final Announcement: Published by the Smart Africa Secretariat and partner platforms

Submit Your Nomination:

Why This Matters

The launch of the Africa AI Council marks a milestone in continental AI governance:

• Strengthens Africa’s influence in shaping global AI standards
• Mobilizes investments into critical infrastructure and talent pipelines
• Ensures inclusive development through locally relevant datasets and solutions
• Positions Africa as an AI innovation hub rather than a passive consumer of imported technologies

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