Latest news with #NationalArtificialIntelligenceStrategy
Daily Maverick
16-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Maverick
AI policies in Africa: lessons from Ghana and Rwanda
Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasing productivity and pushing the boundaries of what's possible. It powers self-driving cars, social media feeds, fraud detection and medical diagnoses. Touted as a game changer, it is projected to add nearly US$15.7 trillion to the global economy by the end of the decade. Africa is positioned to use this technology in several sectors. In Ghana, Kenya and South Africa, AI-led digital tools in use include drones for farm management, X-ray screening for tuberculosis diagnosis, and real-time tracking systems for packages and shipments. All these are helping to fill gaps in accessibility, efficiency and decision-making. However, it also introduces risks. These include biased algorithms, resource and labour exploitation, and e-waste disposal. The lack of a robust regulatory framework in many parts of the continent increases these challenges, leaving vulnerable populations exposed to exploitation. Limited public awareness and infrastructure further complicate the continent's ability to harness AI responsibly. What are African countries doing about it? To answer this, my research mapped out what Ghana and Rwanda had in place as AI policies and investigated how these policies were developed. I looked for shared principles and differences in approach to governance and implementation. The research shows that AI policy development is not a neutral or technical process but a profoundly political one. Power dynamics, institutional interests and competing visions of technological futures shape AI regulation. I conclude from my findings that AI's potential to bring great change in Africa is undeniable. But its benefits are not automatic. Rwanda and Ghana show that effective policy-making requires balancing innovation with equity, global standards with local needs, and state oversight with public trust. The question is not whether Africa can harness AI, but how and on whose terms. How they did it Rwanda's National AI Policy emerged from consultations with local and global actors. These included the Ministry of ICT and Innovation, the Rwandan Space Agency, and NGOs like the Future Society, and the GIZ FAIR Forward. The resulting policy framework is in line with Rwanda's goals for digital transformation, economic diversification and social development. It includes international best practices such as ethical AI, data protection, and inclusive AI adoption. Ghana's Ministry of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations conducted multi-stakeholder workshops to develop a national strategy for digital transformation and innovation. Start-ups, academics, telecom companies and public-sector institutions came together and the result is Ghana's National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2023–2033. Both countries have set up or plan to set up Responsible AI offices. This aligns with global best practices for ethical AI. Rwanda focuses on local capacity building and data sovereignty. This reflects the country's post-genocide emphasis on national control and social cohesion. Similarly, Ghana's proposed office focuses on accountability, though its structure is still under legislative review. Ghana and Rwanda have adopted globally recognised ethical principles like privacy protection, bias mitigation and human rights safeguards. Rwanda's policy reflects Unesco's AI ethics recommendations and Ghana emphasises 'trustworthy AI'. Both policies frame AI as a way to reach the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Rwanda's policy targets applications in healthcare, agriculture, poverty reduction and rural service delivery. Similarly, Ghana's strategy highlights the potential to advance economic growth, environmental sustainability and inclusive digital transformation. Key policy differences Rwanda's policy ties data control to national security. This is rooted in its traumatic history of identity-based violence. Ghana, by contrast, frames AI as a tool for attracting foreign investment rather than a safeguard against state fragility. The policies also differ in how they manage foreign influence. Rwanda has a 'defensive' stance towards global tech powers; Ghana's is 'accommodative'. Rwanda works with partners that allow it to follow its own policy. Ghana, on the other hand, embraces partnerships, viewing them as the start of innovation. While Rwanda's approach is targeted and problem-solving, Ghana's strategy is expansive, aiming for large-scale modernisation and private-sector growth. Through state-led efforts, Rwanda focuses on using AI to solve immediate challenges such as rural healthcare access and food security. In contrast, Ghana looks at using AI more widely – in finance, transport, education and governance – to become a regional tech hub. Constraints and solutions The effectiveness of these AI policies is held back by broader systemic challenges. The US and China dominate in setting global standards, so local priorities get sidelined. For example, while Rwanda and Ghana advocate for ethical AI, it's hard for them to hold multinational corporations accountable for breaches. Energy shortages further complicate large-scale AI adoption. Training models require reliable electricity – a scarce resource in many parts of the continent. To address these gaps, I propose the following: Investments in digital infrastructure, education and local start-ups to reduce dependency on foreign tech giants. African countries must shape international AI governance forums. They must ensure policies reflect continental realities, not just western or Chinese ones. This will include using collective bargaining power through the African Union to bring Africa's development needs to the fore. It could also help with digital sovereignty issues and equitable access to AI technologies. Finally, AI policies must embed African ethical principles. These should include communal rights and post-colonial sensitivities. DM
Zawya
22-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Egypt signs deal with Microsoft to train 100,000 on AI technologies
Egypt's Minister of Communications and Information Technology Amr Talaat witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry and Microsoft Egypt, aimed at advancing Egypt's National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2025–2030. The agreement focuses on building AI capabilities among youth and government employees, while promoting the responsible and sustainable use of AI technologies. The MoU was signed by Raafat Hindi, Deputy Minister for Infrastructure and Digital Transformation, and Mirna Arif, General Manager of Microsoft Egypt, in the presence of senior officials from both sides. It marks a new phase in the ongoing partnership between the Ministry and Microsoft to develop AI applications across Egypt. Talaat emphasized that the MoU builds on a longstanding and productive relationship with Microsoft, and supports Egypt's national vision to accelerate AI adoption across sectors as a catalyst for socioeconomic growth and a knowledge-driven digital economy. He noted that the agreement aligns with several core pillars of the second edition of the National AI Strategy, which aspires to establish a robust AI industry in Egypt. These pillars include strong data governance, advanced infrastructure, a supportive legal framework, and—most critically—human capital development to sustain long-term innovation and competitiveness. 'Collaborating with Microsoft allows us to enhance local AI talent and ensure the responsible deployment of this powerful technology, drawing on international best practices,' Talaat said. 'This supports a comprehensive AI ecosystem that aligns with Egypt's development goals.' Under the agreement, the Ministry and Microsoft will jointly train and qualify 100,000 individuals—including young professionals and IT staff across government ministries and digital transformation units—in AI technologies. The training program includes tailored learning paths, hands-on experience, and content developed by Microsoft. The partnership also provides for technical and sector-specific consultations, enabling government bodies to identify and implement AI-powered solutions that improve innovation, efficiency, and service delivery. Furthermore, the MoU promotes responsible AI use, with a strong emphasis on sharing global expertise and best practices in AI governance. Another key element of the agreement is the launch of a multi-stakeholder dialogue to explore regulatory frameworks for AI, and to promote regional and international knowledge exchange on emerging standards and governance models. Raafat Hindi noted that the partnership reflects the Ministry's commitment to collaborating with global technology leaders to drive Egypt's digital transformation. 'It will empower local talent to create AI-based solutions that enhance public services while upholding ethical and responsible tech use,' he said, citing the alignment with Egypt's Responsible AI Charter. From Microsoft, Samer Abu Latif, President of Microsoft for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, affirmed the company's dedication to supporting digital transformation through innovative technologies. 'Responsible AI adoption and digital skills development are central to our mission,' he said, calling the MoU a strategic milestone in implementing Egypt's AI strategy and positioning the country as a leader in the digital economy. Hoda Baraka, Advisor to the Minister for Technological Skill Development, described the MoU as a key step toward cultivating future-ready talent. 'Through this partnership, we aim to build skills aligned with global innovation trends and empower a generation capable of applying AI to real-world challenges. We also look forward to expanding this initiative to other African countries,' she said. Microsoft Egypt General Manager Mirna Arif concluded: 'We are proud to sign this MoU and deepen our collaboration with the Ministry. Training 100,000 youth and public sector employees not only strengthens Egypt's digital workforce but also reinforces a culture of responsible AI use. This effort lays the groundwork for a sustainable, knowledge-based economy aligned with Egypt's national aspirations.'
Daily News Egypt
21-04-2025
- Business
- Daily News Egypt
Egypt signs MoU with Microsoft to train 100,000 on AI technologies
Egypt's Minister of Communications and Information Technology Amr Talaat witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry and Microsoft Egypt, aimed at advancing Egypt's National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2025–2030. The agreement focuses on building AI capabilities among youth and government employees, while promoting the responsible and sustainable use of AI technologies. The MoU was signed by Raafat Hindi, Deputy Minister for Infrastructure and Digital Transformation, and Mirna Arif, General Manager of Microsoft Egypt, in the presence of senior officials from both sides. It marks a new phase in the ongoing partnership between the Ministry and Microsoft to develop AI applications across Egypt. Talaat emphasized that the MoU builds on a longstanding and productive relationship with Microsoft, and supports Egypt's national vision to accelerate AI adoption across sectors as a catalyst for socioeconomic growth and a knowledge-driven digital economy. He noted that the agreement aligns with several core pillars of the second edition of the National AI Strategy, which aspires to establish a robust AI industry in Egypt. These pillars include strong data governance, advanced infrastructure, a supportive legal framework, and—most critically—human capital development to sustain long-term innovation and competitiveness. 'Collaborating with Microsoft allows us to enhance local AI talent and ensure the responsible deployment of this powerful technology, drawing on international best practices,' Talaat said. 'This supports a comprehensive AI ecosystem that aligns with Egypt's development goals.' Under the agreement, the Ministry and Microsoft will jointly train and qualify 100,000 individuals—including young professionals and IT staff across government ministries and digital transformation units—in AI technologies. The training program includes tailored learning paths, hands-on experience, and content developed by Microsoft. The partnership also provides for technical and sector-specific consultations, enabling government bodies to identify and implement AI-powered solutions that improve innovation, efficiency, and service delivery. Furthermore, the MoU promotes responsible AI use, with a strong emphasis on sharing global expertise and best practices in AI governance. Another key element of the agreement is the launch of a multi-stakeholder dialogue to explore regulatory frameworks for AI, and to promote regional and international knowledge exchange on emerging standards and governance models. Raafat Hindi noted that the partnership reflects the Ministry's commitment to collaborating with global technology leaders to drive Egypt's digital transformation. 'It will empower local talent to create AI-based solutions that enhance public services while upholding ethical and responsible tech use,' he said, citing the alignment with Egypt's Responsible AI Charter. From Microsoft, Samer Abu Latif, President of Microsoft for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, affirmed the company's dedication to supporting digital transformation through innovative technologies. 'Responsible AI adoption and digital skills development are central to our mission,' he said, calling the MoU a strategic milestone in implementing Egypt's AI strategy and positioning the country as a leader in the digital economy. Hoda Baraka, Advisor to the Minister for Technological Skill Development, described the MoU as a key step toward cultivating future-ready talent. 'Through this partnership, we aim to build skills aligned with global innovation trends and empower a generation capable of applying AI to real-world challenges. We also look forward to expanding this initiative to other African countries,' she said. Microsoft Egypt General Manager Mirna Arif concluded: 'We are proud to sign this MoU and deepen our collaboration with the Ministry. Training 100,000 youth and public sector employees not only strengthens Egypt's digital workforce but also reinforces a culture of responsible AI use. This effort lays the groundwork for a sustainable, knowledge-based economy aligned with Egypt's national aspirations.'
Channel Post MEA
13-02-2025
- Business
- Channel Post MEA
Microsoft AI Tour Arrives In Cairo
Microsoft's global AI Tour, a series of events spanning over 60 cities worldwide, has arrived in Cairo. In partnership with the Minister of Communications and Information Technology, the event brought together government officials, business leaders, technology developers, and innovators for an experience focused on demonstrating the capabilities of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The landmark event coincides with Microsoft's 30-year anniversary in Egypt, underscoring the company's long-standing commitment to empowering public and private sector organizations with cutting-edge technologies to drive innovation, economic growth, and national progress. Microsoft's AI Tour in Cairo featured remarks by H.E. Dr. Ayman Ashour, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research; H.E. Dr. Sherif Farouk, Minister of Supply and Internal Trade; H.E. Counselor Mahmoud Fawzy, Minister of Parliamentary and Legal Affairs and Political Communication; and H.E. Dr. Mohamed Farid Saleh, Executive Chairman of the Financial Regulatory Authority. The officials highlighted the pivotal role that AI is playing in empowering government agencies to accelerate scientific breakthroughs, optimize supply chains, enhance the quality of public services, and combat fraud. As Egypt accelerates towards a digital-first future, Microsoft's AI Tour in Cairo serves as a key platform for discussions on the potential of the latest advancements in AI to enhance productivity, scale businesses, and foster a culture of innovation. The event also aligns with Egypt's recently launched second edition of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2025–2030), which aims to position the country as a leading AI hub in the Middle East & North Africa region. The strategy focuses on governance, infrastructure, technology, data, ecosystem, and talent development, with ambitious targets to increase the ICT sector's contribution to Egypt's GDP to 7.7% by 2030, establish over 250 AI companies, and build a workforce of over 30,000 AI professionals. Lillian Barnard, President of Microsoft Africa, in her opening keynote, highlighted the pivotal role of AI in transforming industries and economies. 'Artificial Intelligence is not just redefining the way we all work and live, it is unlocking unprecedented opportunities for both growth and innovation at a speed that we have never seen before. Already, our research shows us that organizations that invest even $1 in Generative AI are enjoying an ROI of $3.7. For top leaders that have integrated Generative AI into their businesses, this ROI is as high as $10.3. Microsoft is committed to supporting organizations across all sectors in Egypt to secure this potential by democratizing access to the latest cutting-edge cloud and AI solutions that enhance productivity, drive efficiency, and ensure long-term economic prosperity.' Mirna Arif, General Manager of Microsoft Egypt, reaffirmed Microsoft's dedication to empowering organizations with the latest advancements in AI and cloud computing. 'For 30 years, Microsoft has been a trusted partner in Egypt's digital transformation journey. Our unwavering commitment to security, compliance, and transparency continues to enable businesses and government entities to harness AI's potential to scale, innovate, and create lasting impact.' The event also featured keynote presentations, technical workshops, and hands-on sessions led by top Microsoft executives. Experts also spotlighted Microsoft's flagship AI tools, including Microsoft Copilot – today utilized by nearly 70% of the Fortune 500 – and Copilot Agents, designed to revolutionize the workplace and improve productivity. Further discussions delved into the innovative AI capabilities of the Microsoft Surface portfolio. Business leaders and IT professionals experienced firsthand how Surface AI PCs and Microsoft's latest Copilot+ PCs integrate seamlessly with Microsoft Copilot and other AI solutions to drive operational efficiency, productivity, and creativity. The event also provided a platform for organizations across Egypt to showcase their AI-driven innovations and real-world success stories: Egypt's Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research , which oversees educational activities in both public and private Egyptian universities, leveraged Azure OpenAI to develop an AI-powered tutor and teaching assistant that helps students build their soft skills. The AI Tutor was deployed at Ain Shams University where it supported 332 students creating their final marketing project. Student engagement reached 86%, with over 980 ideas generated and more than 19,000 conversation messages exchanged. , which oversees educational activities in both public and private Egyptian universities, leveraged Azure OpenAI to develop an AI-powered tutor and teaching assistant that helps students build their soft skills. The AI Tutor was deployed at Ain Shams University where it supported 332 students creating their final marketing project. Student engagement reached 86%, with over 980 ideas generated and more than 19,000 conversation messages exchanged. Ghabbour Auto Group , a leading automotive company famous for assembly-manufacturing cars in Egypt, adopted Microsoft 365 Copilot to enhance the organization's digital presence and improve customer engagement. Employees leveraging the solution have streamlined various processes, resulting in increased efficiency and productivity. In addition, the solution has also helped provide valuable insights and data points, enabling more informed decision-making and driving strategic growth. , a leading automotive company famous for assembly-manufacturing cars in Egypt, adopted Microsoft 365 Copilot to enhance the organization's digital presence and improve customer engagement. Employees leveraging the solution have streamlined various processes, resulting in increased efficiency and productivity. In addition, the solution has also helped provide valuable insights and data points, enabling more informed decision-making and driving strategic growth. a leading Egyptian retailer with over 161 stores across the country specializing in household appliances and consumer electronics, adopted Microsoft 365 Copilot to empower employees across various departments to make more informed decisions and improve overall productivity. The company also leveraged GitHub Copilot to enhance the productivity of its programmers by providing AI-driven code suggestions and automating repetitive coding tasks. This has helped the programmers to improve code quality and drive the business forward through innovation and improved customer engagement. The AI Tour in Cairo exemplifies Microsoft's commitment to fostering AI adoption across Egypt's public and private sectors, supporting the nation's ambition to become a global AI leader. Microsoft looks forward to deepening its collaboration with Egypt's technology ecosystem, empowering organizations to drive growth, create value, and unlock the full potential of AI. 0 0
Zawya
12-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Microsoft AI Tour lands in Cairo to showcase the power of AI for a digitally transformed Egypt
On the eve of Microsoft's 30th anniversary in Egypt, highly anticipated event showcases company's unwavering commitment to supporting the nation's ambitious digital transformation journey. Cairo, Egypt: Microsoft's global AI Tour, a series of events spanning over 60 cities worldwide, arrived in Cairo today. In partnership with the Minister of Communications and Information Technology, the event brought together government officials, business leaders, technology developers, and innovators for an experience focused on demonstrating the capabilities of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The landmark event coincides with Microsoft's 30-year anniversary in Egypt, underscoring the company's long-standing commitment to empowering public and private sector organizations with cutting-edge technologies to drive innovation, economic growth, and national progress. Microsoft's AI Tour in Cairo featured remarks by H.E. Dr. Ayman Ashour, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research; H.E. Dr. Sherif Farouk, Minister of Supply and Internal Trade; H.E. Counselor Mahmoud Fawzy, Minister of Parliamentary and Legal Affairs and Political Communication; and H.E. Dr. Mohamed Farid Saleh, Executive Chairman of the Financial Regulatory Authority. The officials highlighted the pivotal role that AI is playing in empowering government agencies to accelerate scientific breakthroughs, optimize supply chains, enhance the quality of public services, and combat fraud. As Egypt accelerates towards a digital-first future, Microsoft's AI Tour in Cairo serves as a key platform for discussions on the potential of the latest advancements in AI to enhance productivity, scale businesses, and foster a culture of innovation. The event also aligns with Egypt's recently launched second edition of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2025–2030), which aims to position the country as a leading AI hub in the Middle East & North Africa region. The strategy focuses on governance, infrastructure, technology, data, ecosystem, and talent development, with ambitious targets to increase the ICT sector's contribution to Egypt's GDP to 7.7% by 2030, establish over 250 AI companies, and build a workforce of over 30,000 AI professionals. Lillian Barnard, President of Microsoft Africa, in her opening keynote, highlighted the pivotal role of AI in transforming industries and economies. 'Artificial Intelligence is not just redefining the way we all work and live, it is unlocking unprecedented opportunities for both growth and innovation at a speed that we have never seen before. Already, our research shows us that organizations that invest even $1 in Generative AI are enjoying an ROI of $3.7. For top leaders that have integrated Generative AI into their businesses, this ROI is as high as $10.3. Microsoft is committed to supporting organizations across all sectors in Egypt to secure this potential by democratizing access to the latest cutting-edge cloud and AI solutions that enhance productivity, drive efficiency, and ensure long-term economic prosperity.' Mirna Arif, General Manager of Microsoft Egypt, reaffirmed Microsoft's dedication to empowering organizations with the latest advancements in AI and cloud computing. 'For 30 years, Microsoft has been a trusted partner in Egypt's digital transformation journey. Our unwavering commitment to security, compliance, and transparency continues to enable businesses and government entities to harness AI's potential to scale, innovate, and create lasting impact.' The event also featured keynote presentations, technical workshops, and hands-on sessions led by top Microsoft executives. Experts also spotlighted Microsoft's flagship AI tools, including Microsoft Copilot – today utilized by nearly 70% of the Fortune 500 – and Copilot Agents, designed to revolutionize the workplace and improve productivity. Further discussions delved into the innovative AI capabilities of the Microsoft Surface portfolio. Business leaders and IT professionals experienced firsthand how Surface AI PCs and Microsoft's latest Copilot+ PCs integrate seamlessly with Microsoft Copilot and other AI solutions to drive operational efficiency, productivity, and creativity. The event also provided a platform for organizations across Egypt to showcase their AI-driven innovations and real-world success stories: Egypt's Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research, which oversees educational activities in both public and private Egyptian universities, leveraged Azure OpenAI to develop an AI-powered tutor and teaching assistant that helps students build their soft skills. The AI Tutor was deployed at Ain Shams University where it supported 332 students creating their final marketing project. Student engagement reached 86%, with over 980 ideas generated and more than 19,000 conversation messages exchanged. Ghabbour Auto Group, a leading automotive company famous for assembly-manufacturing cars in Egypt, adopted Microsoft 365 Copilot to enhance the organization's digital presence and improve customer engagement. Employees leveraging the solution have streamlined various processes, resulting in increased efficiency and productivity. In addition, the solution has also helped provide valuable insights and data points, enabling more informed decision-making and driving strategic growth. a leading Egyptian retailer with over 161 stores across the country specializing in household appliances and consumer electronics, adopted Microsoft 365 Copilot to empower employees across various departments to make more informed decisions and improve overall productivity. The company also leveraged GitHub Copilot to enhance the productivity of its programmers by providing AI-driven code suggestions and automating repetitive coding tasks. This has helped the programmers to improve code quality and drive the business forward through innovation and improved customer engagement. The AI Tour in Cairo exemplifies Microsoft's commitment to fostering AI adoption across Egypt's public and private sectors, supporting the nation's ambition to become a global AI leader. Microsoft looks forward to deepening its collaboration with Egypt's technology ecosystem, empowering organizations to drive growth, create value, and unlock the full potential of AI. About Microsoft Microsoft (Nasdaq 'MSFT' @microsoft) creates platforms and tools powered by AI to deliver innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers. The technology company is committed to making AI available broadly and doing so responsibly, with a mission to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.
