Devastation, Disruption or Development: Artificial Intelligence, Africa and the 21st Century

There are implications of AI and emerging technologies for countries in Africa and other developing countries, and for international law and global governance. Will AI spell devastation, disruption, or development for developing countries, is a question that is increasingly asked.  What are the potential benefits and risks of AI for countries in Africa? Considering that the fourth industrial revolution cannot be stalled, how should countries in Africa respond? How should the law – domestic, regional, and international law – respond? How should legal and regulatory frameworks in Africa and the legal community in the continent respond? The purpose of the presentation is not to fuel anxiety about technological changes in our world but to identify crucial questions that must guide law and policy if countries in Africa and other low- and middle-income countries are to successfully seize the opportunities presented by AI while minimizing attendant risks, costs, and challenges.

 Speakers:

• Damian Croker, LegalTech UK
• Uche Ewelukwa Ofodile (keynote), University of Arkansas School of Law
• Mohamed Helal (moderator), Ohio State University Moritz College of Law
• Madeline Kimei, iResolve, Tanzania
• Daniel Makina, University of South Africa
• Uju Ezejiofor Obasi, Financial Industry Regulatory Authority
• Ijeoma Ononogbu (moderator), Africa Interest Group
• Onyeka Osuji, University of Essex School of Law

This session is organized by ASIL’s Africa Interest Group.