By: Nana
Appiah Acquaye
Algeria is strengthening its
role in shaping Africa’s digital future by advancing initiatives focused on
digital sovereignty, artificial intelligence governance, connectivity and
innovation across the continent.
At the opening of the UN
Global Dialogue on AI Governance in Geneva on 10 July 2026, Algeria’s Minister
of Post and Telecommunications, Hon. Sid Ali Zerrouki, emphasized the need for
inclusive participation in the development and governance of artificial
intelligence.
“AI should not divide the
world between those who design it and design the future, and those who merely
consume it,” Zerrouki said, highlighting the importance of ensuring that
African countries play an active role in creating and shaping emerging technologies.
The message formed part of
broader discussions during the minister’s engagement with H.E. Lerato D.
Mataboge, Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy, on advancing continental
digital transformation priorities and strengthening cooperation around Africa’s
digital development frameworks.
Algeria has positioned
itself as a key advocate for digital sovereignty through several continental
initiatives. In March 2026, the country hosted the Global Africa Tech Summit,
where African ministers adopted a declaration focused on digital sovereignty
and the integration of terrestrial, satellite and maritime communication
networks.
The country has also taken a
leading role in promoting regulatory frameworks for digital platforms operating
in Africa, while supporting entrepreneurship and innovation through its annual
startup conference, a dedicated startup secretariat and a Startups Fund aimed
at accelerating the growth of emerging technology companies.
At the national level,
Algeria’s digital strategy is anchored by a National Artificial Intelligence
Strategy adopted in 2024 and the establishment of a National AI University,
designed to strengthen research, skills development and local capacity in
artificial intelligence.
Zerrouki’s leadership role
as Chair of the Administrative Council of the African Telecommunications Union
(ATU) further places Algeria at the centre of discussions on Africa’s
telecommunications and digital policy priorities.
The Geneva discussions
focused on how national initiatives can align with continental objectives,
including the development of interoperable sovereign AI systems, integrated
digital networks and stronger coordination between African institutions to
translate policy commitments into practical implementation.
Through these efforts,
Algeria continues to push for a future where African countries are not only
users of digital technologies but active contributors to their design,
governance and deployment.
