By:
Nana Appiah Acquaye
A
newly launched Tech Justice in Africa Report has called for stronger,
people-centred approaches to technology governance across the continent,
warning that persistent inequalities and systemic risks continue to shape
Africa’s digital transformation.
The
report was unveiled during a joint event hosted by the Global Center on AI
Governance and the Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria, bringing
together stakeholders to examine the implications of emerging technologies on
African societies.
Discussions
at the launch highlighted that while digital technologies are accelerating
innovation and economic opportunities, many systems deployed across Africa are
externally designed and often lack adequate regulatory oversight, raising
concerns about fairness, accountability, and local relevance.
The
report outlines key findings and presents nine recommendations focused on
strengthening governance frameworks, expanding public participation, and
increasing investment in initiatives that promote equitable and responsible
technology development.
Contributors
emphasised the need to shift towards inclusive models where citizens have
meaningful influence over how technologies are designed, implemented, and
regulated. They warned against the normalisation of practices such as
surveillance-driven business models, labour exploitation, and environmentally
harmful innovation.
The
report also calls for the development of context-specific digital solutions
that reflect African realities, rather than relying on imported technologies
that may not align with local needs.
Stakeholders
at the event underscored that Africa’s digital future remains open-ended and
will be determined by policy choices, institutional capacity, and collective
efforts to ensure technology supports inclusive growth and human development.
The
initiative was supported by partners including Luminate, with researchers and
policy experts contributing to the development of the report aimed at advancing
tech justice across the continent.
