African Observatory on Responsible AI

Project Overview

The African Observatory on Responsible AI (AORAI) is a flagship initiative of the Global Center on AI Governance, serving as a continental knowledge hub and network that drives ethical, inclusive, and rights-based AI governance in Africa. AORAI examines how AI intersects with African societies—exploring local contexts, socio-economic dynamics, and value systems that shape the design, adoption, and impact of AI technologies.

AORAI convenes scholars, policymakers, practitioners, and institutions from across Africa and the diaspora to co-create research, shape policy, and build capacity. From national AI strategies to regional training programs, the Observatory supports African-led approaches to responsible AI grounded in justice, rights, and relevance.

Project Highlights

Global and Continental Reach

The African Observatory on Responsible AI’s network includes African researchers and diaspora scholars contributing to academic and policy work globally. Their research has appeared in leading publications, major conferences, and co-created events that elevate African perspectives in global AI discourse.

Trusted Knowledge Production

The Observatory publishes peer-reviewed journal articles, policy briefs, and blogs, bridging academic and policy communities with accessible, evidence-based insights on AI in Africa.

Capacity Building

Over 100+ policymakers, researchers, and civil society actors have been trained through certified university courses and tailored training programs. This includes a flagship short course on AI and Human Rights in Africa, developed with the Centre for Human Rights at the University of Pretoria and an online course on AI, Ethics and Policy in Africa with the Ethics Lab in the University of Cape Town

Policy Influence

The Observatory has directly contributed to national AI strategies in Nigeria and South Africa, as well as the African Union’s Continental AI strategy.