The African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS) has launched its dedicated AI Institute, creating a specialized hub for research, policy development, and strategic partnerships across Africa.
The virtual launch event took place recently, under the theme “Charting the Path Towards an African-Centered AI Future.” This timing aligns with the African Union’s Continental AI Strategy and broader digital transformation goals outlined in Agenda 2063.
ACTS Transitions From Digital Economy Focus to AI Specialization
For over three decades, ACTS has driven research in science, technology, and innovation policy across Africa. The organization’s evolution from its Digital Economy Programme to a dedicated AI Institute reflects the growing importance of artificial intelligence in key sectors including agriculture, climate resilience, public health, education, and economic development.
The transformation addresses a critical need as African nations work to develop contextually relevant AI approaches. These approaches must harness AI’s potential while addressing regional challenges and ensuring technology enhances rather than deepens existing inequalities.
African AI Development Gains Continental Momentum
The ACTS AI Institute launch comes as Africa accelerates its AI governance initiatives. The African Union adopted its Continental AI Strategy in August 2024, establishing a framework to guide AI development across the continent from 2025 to 2030. This strategy emphasizes an Africa-centric, development-focused approach that promotes ethical, responsible, and equitable practices.
Kenya has emerged as a regional leader, releasing its National AI Strategy 2025-2030 in March 2025. The strategy positions Kenya as a hub for AI research and development, emphasizing local innovation and sustainable development. Other African countries, including Egypt, Mauritius, and Rwanda, have also published national AI strategies, creating a growing network of policy frameworks across the continent.
Global AI Market Creates Opportunities for African Innovation
The global AI market continues expanding rapidly, with projections suggesting it will reach $1.8 trillion by 2030. African countries recognize the potential for AI to address pressing challenges in healthcare, agriculture, education, and climate adaptation. However, this potential requires strategic planning and responsible implementation.
Recent initiatives demonstrate growing international support for African AI development. The African Development Bank partnered with Google to explore AI applications for inclusive development, while the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) supports homegrown AI applications and policies through its AI4D program.
Expert Speakers Address AI Integration Challenges
The ACTS AI Institute launch features prominent speakers from across Africa and internationally. Laurent Bochereau, Minister-Counsellor from the European Union Delegation to the African Union, will discuss international cooperation opportunities. Prof Bitange Ndemo, Kenya’s Ambassador to Belgium, brings expertise in digital transformation and technology policy.
Prof Brando Okolo, Head of Science, Technology, and Innovation at AUDA-NEPAD, will address continental coordination efforts. Dr Veerle Vandeweerd from the Platform for Transformative Technologies will explore technology implementation strategies.
Local expertise includes Tom Peter Migun Ogada, Executive Director of ACTS, and Emeritus Berhanu M. Abegaz, former Executive Director of the African Academy of Sciences in Ethiopia. These speakers bring diverse perspectives on integrating AI into African development strategies.
Regional Cooperation Strengthens AI Governance Frameworks
The African Observatory on Responsible AI (AORAI) has begun examining how AI intersects with African societies, exploring local contexts and value systems that shape technology adoption. This research informs policy development and ensures AI deployment aligns with African values and development priorities.
Recent studies indicate that 85% of African organizations consider AI development skills a priority, highlighting the urgent need for capacity building. The ACTS AI Institute will address this skills gap through training programs and knowledge sharing initiatives.
Implementation Phase Begins in 2025
The African Union’s Continental AI Strategy enters its first implementation phase in 2025-2026, focusing on establishing governance structures, creating national AI strategies, and mobilizing resources. The ACTS AI Institute will support these efforts by providing research, policy guidance, and capacity building services.
The institute will serve as a nexus for connecting researchers, policymakers, and practitioners across Africa. This network approach recognizes that AI development requires collaboration between multiple stakeholders and sectors.
African AI Development Addresses Local Challenges
Unlike AI development in other regions, African initiatives focus heavily on addressing local challenges such as food security, climate adaptation, and healthcare access. The ACTS AI Institute will research how AI can support these priorities while ensuring benefits reach marginalized communities.
The institute’s work will inform policy decisions about AI regulation, data governance, and technology transfer. This research becomes increasingly important as African countries develop their national AI strategies and implementation plans.
Future Partnerships Expand AI Research Capacity
The ACTS AI Institute will build partnerships with universities, research institutions, and technology companies across Africa and internationally. These collaborations will enhance research capacity and ensure African perspectives influence global AI development discussions.
The institute’s research agenda includes examining AI’s impact on employment, education, and social systems. This work will help African countries prepare for AI-driven economic transformation while protecting vulnerable populations.
The launch of the ACTS AI Institute represents a significant step in Africa’s AI development journey. The institute will help ensure that AI development serves African interests and contributes to sustainable development across the continent, by combining research expertise with policy advocacy.
