New Video Released: Amplifying Sub-Saharan Africa’s Voice in Global Data/AI & Policy Dialogue

Dec 6, 2024

Highlights from Data for Policy Sub-Saharan Africa Engagement Programme

Data for Policy CIC, supported by the Gates Foundation, has been at the forefront of amplifying Sub-Saharan African (SSA) voices in global AI, data, and policymaking discussions. Our newly released YouTube video offers an in-depth look at this impactful journey, celebrating the region’s growing influence and contributions to these critical fields.

Since May 2022, Data for Policy has partnered with regional experts, government agencies, and organisations such as Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA), The Evans School of Public Policy & Governance and Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER) to create opportunities for SSA stakeholders to engage on a global stage. The programme has focused on advancing the region’s expertise in AI and data science to address pressing issues such as agriculture, healthcare, women’s empowerment, and financial inclusion.

Key milestones highlighted in the video include:

  • SSA Convenings: Events in Nairobi and Accra brought together regional leaders to explore SSA’s role in the global data policy space. Discussions emphasised shifting the focus from data production to data stewardship and using AI to address socioeconomic challenges.
  • Collaborative Research: Partner organisations have contributed valuable research across various sectors, with a focus on inclusive policymaking. Their work includes insights into the challenges faced by marginalised groups, such as women, and other underrepresented communities, ensuring that policies are equitable and responsive to diverse needs.
  • Increased SSA Participation: Intentional engagement has boosted SSA submissions to Data for Policy conferences from 2% in 2015 to 13.45% in 2024.
  • Special Track on AI: The Data for Policy 2024 Conference featured a dedicated session on “AI, Ethics and Policy Governance in Africa”, with leading experts addressing the region’s unique challenges.

The video also highlights the Data for Policy pre-conference working group held in July 2024 at the Data Science Institute at Imperial College London, where distinguished SSA experts charted pathways for the effective use of AI and data in the public sector.

Looking ahead, Data for Policy is committed to fostering North-South collaboration, empowering SSA leadership in agriculture, healthcare, and women’s empowerment, and driving inclusive policymaking across the region.

Watch the full video on our YouTube channel to learn more about this transformative programme.