Smart Africa CEO Calls for Fair AI Partnership
The Chief Executive Officer of Smart Africa, Lacina Koné, has called for a stronger and more balanced partnership between Africa and Europe in shaping the future of artificial intelligence.
Speaking at the EU-Africa AI Tech Business Offer Event, Koné said African countries must play an active role in developing and governing artificial intelligence systems.
He explained that Africa should not only participate in the global AI revolution but also help shape how the technology evolves.
Trust and Digital Sovereignty Remain Key
Koné stressed that trust, digital sovereignty, and local value creation should form the foundation of future cooperation between Africa and Europe.
According to him, African countries need partnerships that create real economic and technological benefits for local industries and communities.
He added that the future of artificial intelligence must rely on fair collaboration rather than unequal technology relationships.
“The question is no longer whether Africa will be part of the AI transformation, but whether the continent will help shape it,” Koné said during the event.
Africa Wants Greater Influence in AI Development
The Smart Africa CEO said discussions around artificial intelligence have moved beyond simple inclusion.
He noted that African countries now want greater influence over how AI technologies are designed, deployed, and regulated globally.
Industry experts have increasingly raised concerns about data sovereignty, digital dependence, and unequal access to AI infrastructure between developed and developing economies.
Many African policymakers believe stronger local participation will help ensure AI systems reflect African realities, languages, and economic priorities.
Smart Africa AI Partnership Supports Digital Transformation
Smart Africa continues to promote digital transformation across the continent through policy coordination, infrastructure development, and technology skills programmes.
The organisation works with African governments, private sector players, and international partners to improve digital connectivity and strengthen innovation ecosystems.
Technology stakeholders say investments in data centres, cloud infrastructure, AI skills, and digital governance frameworks will play a major role in Africa’s long-term economic growth.
Global Debate Around AI Governance Expands
Koné’s remarks come as governments and technology companies around the world increase discussions around artificial intelligence governance and cross-border digital cooperation.
Countries and regional blocs are now working to create rules that balance innovation, security, economic opportunity, and ethical concerns linked to AI systems.
Analysts say Africa’s involvement in those conversations will become increasingly important as artificial intelligence reshapes industries such as healthcare, education, finance, agriculture, and public services.
