UNESCO launches initiative to shape AI development in Africa

In September 2025, UNESCO began its 'AI Initiative for Africa' amid ongoing discussions about the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on public discourse and the need for appropriate governance of the technology in the continent. The initiative focuses on building local capacity, aspiring to train over 15,000 civil servants in AI competencies while addressing the challenges of digital transformation. A significant aspect involves training 5,000 judges and prosecutors to navigate AI's complexities in legal contexts, aiming to reduce the inadvertent violation of human rights due to AI's influence. Additionally, 2,000 teachers and 30 education policymakers across 15 African countries will be trained under the 'Youth Coding Initiative,' with plans for a pan-African incubator to nurture 1,500 AI researchers. UNESCO's Director-General, Audrey Azoulay, emphasized the collaboration between UNESCO, the African Union, and the South African presidency of the G20, indicating the use of AI should align with the real needs of African communities. South Africa's leadership within the G20 seeks innovation in AI and data governance, granting this initiative considerable international relevance. This convergence creates a robust opportunity for African nations to not only learn about AI but also to establish their own frameworks that suit their unique contexts rather than relying solely on external models. In conjunction with these educational efforts, UNESCO rolled out the 'Technology Policy Assistance Facility,' which is designed to empower policymaking across nations by providing tailored resources aligned with global standards. By offering tools like case studies and training resources, UNESCO aims to support the development of policies that govern AI responsibly and ethically. However, UNESCO's initiative isn't devoid of criticism. Concerns persist regarding the ethical implications of AI, especially after a study in March 2024 uncovered troubling biases present in large language models (LLMs). Calls for global guidelines on regulating online content and safeguarding rights continue to underpin UNESCO's agenda. The U.N. Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, has underscored the urgency for frameworks that address hate speech and disinformation fueled by AI. As AI technologies rapidly evolve, existing frameworks must adapt, making UNESCO's initiative a pivotal move in shaping the trajectory of AI across Africa and possibly influencing global AI policies.