Why I’m Sharing This: A Personal Advocacy Note
As an innovation and technology policy advisor committed to Africa’s self-determination in the digital age, I believe the Africa AI Research Colloquium is an important initiative.
For too long, Africa’s technology trajectory has been characterized by:
• Reactive policymaking rather than proactive strategy
• Import-dependent innovation structures and ecosystems
• Fragmented research efforts that dilute our collective impact
This event matters because it aims to convene the minds that can:
✓ Establish unified AI governance before external frameworks are imposed
✓ Elevate African research to inform continental standards
✓ Create collaborative pathways between policymakers, academics, and builders
While I’m not affiliated with the organizers, I’m amplifying this opportunity because technological sovereignty undoubtedly begins with gatherings like this. I hope many of you will attend. The work starts now.
About the Africa AI Research Colloquium
This landmark event aims to bring together 100+ researchers, policymakers, and innovators to:
✅ Harmonize AI policy approaches across African nations
✅ Strengthen indigenous AI research capabilities
✅ Develop ethical governance frameworks for emerging technologies
✅ Catalyze market opportunities for African AI solutions
The colloquium will hopefully lay the foundation for the African AI Scientific Panel, a proposed advisory body to guide continental AI strategy.
Focus Areas at the Africa AI Research Colloquium
Based on official announcements, I accordingly look forward to discussions centered on:
1. Policy Development & Alignment
• Creating interoperable AI regulations across African markets
• Balancing innovation promotion with citizen protections
2. Research Capacity Building
• Connecting Africa’s AI research institutions
• Addressing continent-specific AI applications
3. Ethical Implementation
• Preventing algorithmic bias in African contexts
• Establishing responsible data governance protocols
Who Should Attend the Africa AI Research Colloquium?
This event is particularly relevant for:
• AI/ML researchers (academic and industry)
• Technology policy leaders and government advisors
• Innovation ecosystem builders
• Tech entrepreneurs developing AI solutions
• Graduate students pursuing AI careers
How to Join the Africa AI Research Colloquium
📅 Date: April 2, 2025
📍 Venue: Kigali Marriott Hotel, Rwanda
🔗 Registration: Official Event Registration
Why This Matters for Africa
The decisions we make about AI today will determine:
• Whether African nations are rule-makers or rule-takers
• How economic value from AI is distributed
• Which cultural values get embedded in technologies
This colloquium therefore represents our chance to answer these questions collectively.
Register Now to Secure Your Participation
Author: Jide Awe
Science, Technology and Innovation policy advisor.
Nigeria’s Inaugural Tech Mentor of the Year
Find him on LinkedIn Jide Awe on LinkedIn
Find him on Twitter @jidaw
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