At the United Nations’ Global Dialogue on AI Governance in Geneva, Côte d’Ivoire presented a compelling vision for inclusive and shared artificial intelligence.
Djibril Ouattara, the Minister of Communication and Government Spokesperson, represented his nation, advocating for a global AI governance framework. He stressed the importance of learning from past technological transitions while ensuring Africa plays a central role in this unfolding digital revolution. Minister Ouattara commenced his address by commending the UN initiative and conveying a message from the President of Côte d’Ivoire.
Acknowledging the vast implications, Minister Ouattara underscored AI’s role as a monumental transformation. He referenced a study by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), stating: « According to a PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) study, AI could contribute an impressive $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030. However, a critical question arises: which economies will truly reap these benefits? »
For Abidjan, the answer is unequivocal: « For Côte d’Ivoire, the response is clear: AI must not be the exclusive domain of a select few economies or platforms. It must serve as an ethical and shared engine for progress. »
A robust digital ambition and five foundational initiatives
Côte d’Ivoire is strategically leveraging digital transformation to ascend to the ranks of upper-middle-income emerging nations. Boasting 95% broadband coverage currently, the country aims for universal access, ensuring all government services are readily available online.
This ambitious transformation is spearheaded by the Ministry of Digital Transition and Technological Innovation. Its strategic roadmap incorporates « a dedicated pillar focused on deploying an inclusive and ethical Ivorian artificial intelligence. » The objective is explicit: « to position AI as a catalyst for sovereignty, productivity, inclusion, and social advancement for all. »
Four pillars for global AI governance
Côte d’Ivoire championed a global artificial intelligence governance model built upon four essential pillars. The first is inclusion, « to ensure no nation is marginalized by this revolution and that developing countries receive support in accessing vital infrastructure, data, and funding. » The second is trust, to be fostered through « clear principles of transparency, robust cybersecurity, and comprehensive data protection. »
The third pillar emphasizes interoperability, facilitated by « open architectures and the secure flow of data crucial for development. » Finally, the fourth pillar advocates for cooperative digital sovereignty, « empowering each country to actively participate in defining the rules and adapting AI solutions to its unique realities. »
Minister Ouattara further stressed the imperative for supranational frameworks: « Given that the digital realm inherently knows no borders, we are actively engaged in all supranational efforts designed to safeguard our citizens from biases and ideological influences in the application of AI. »
Towards an African School of AI
Drawing on Côte d’Ivoire’s extensive experience within regional bodies like OHADA, CAMES, and UEMOA, Minister Ouattara issued a powerful call for collective action. « Therefore, I seize this platform to appeal for regional cooperation and the pooling of efforts, projects, and investments. » The overarching goal is to construct shared infrastructures, develop tools to preserve informational heritage, and, critically, to provide specialized training.
A cornerstone of his address was the innovative proposal for establishing a Regional African School of Artificial Intelligence. This initiative, he emphasized, is crucial for delivering tangible benefits to African populations immediately, particularly in vital sectors such as health, education, and food security.
Côte d’Ivoire’s participation in the dialogue was notably marked by its strong advocacy for inclusive global artificial intelligence governance. In closing, the nation applauded « the adoption of the Pact for the Future and the Global Digital Compact » and reaffirmed « its unwavering commitment to contribute, alongside the United Nations, ITU, and UNESCO, to inclusive global governance (…). My country is convinced that the future of AI must be forged collectively, serving as an instrument of shared progress, » he declared.
