African leaders push for stronger AI governance and collaboration at Africa Forward Summit

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye

Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, William Kabogo Gitau, has called for stronger collaboration and strategic investment to enable Africa fully harness the economic potential of artificial intelligence and emerging digital technologies.

Speaking during a high-level roundtable discussion on Artificial Intelligence and Digital Technologies at the Africa Forward Summit 2026, Kabogo said AI has the potential to contribute up to five percent to the economic growth of countries when supported by effective policies, regulatory frameworks, and targeted investments.

The session, chaired by the President of the Republic of Botswana, H.E Duma Boko, brought together African leaders, ministers, industry experts, and senior government officials to discuss how the continent can leverage AI and digital technologies to drive innovation, economic transformation, and inclusive growth.

Participants emphasized the importance of establishing robust AI governance mechanisms to safeguard data privacy, strengthen data protection, and ensure the responsible use of emerging technologies. The discussions also highlighted the need for trusted partnerships between governments and the private sector to accelerate digital development across the continent.

Leaders at the roundtable agreed that Africa must move with urgency to position itself competitively in the global digital economy by strengthening cooperation with international partners, innovators, and technology stakeholders.

The meeting further underscored the importance of developing ethical AI standards, promoting inclusive language technologies, and deploying practical digital solutions capable of addressing everyday socio-economic challenges facing African communities.