In a major development for Africa’s technology governance landscape, Akua Gyekye, Head of Government Affairs – Africa at Microsoft, has been elected as an Independent Member of the newly established Africa AI Council. The announcement follows an intensive and highly competitive selection process aimed at assembling a diverse and expert-led body to guide the continent’s approach to artificial intelligence.
The Africa AI Council, created by Smart Africa, comprises seven ICT ministers and eight independent members drawn from across the continent. According to Gyekye, the council’s formation followed a rigorous evaluation led collaboratively by Smart Africa, the African Union Commission, and the International Telecommunications Union (ITU). The process ensured strong geographic representation and expertise across six priority thematic areas: infrastructure, data, markets, talent, investment, and governance.
More than 400 applications were received from professionals of 57 nationalities, spanning government institutions, academia, civil society, and the private sector—underscoring the high level of interest and expertise surrounding AI policy and development in Africa. Gyekye said she is proud to join the first cohort entrusted with shaping the continent’s AI trajectory.
The Council is tasked with providing strategic, actionable recommendations to support inclusive and responsible AI adoption across Africa. Its mandate includes guiding policymakers to ensure that artificial intelligence is accessible, ethically deployed, and tailored to the needs of African communities. Gyekye described the initiative as a pivotal step toward strengthening the continent’s vision for inclusive innovation and long-term economic growth.
Speaking on the significance of the appointment, Lacina Koné, Director General and CEO of Smart Africa, reaffirmed the council’s mission: “Our Board mandated us to ensure that Africa leads, not follows, in the global AI transformation. With the establishment of the Africa AI Council, we take a decisive step toward shaping an AI-driven future rooted in African values, responsive to African challenges, and designed to unlock African potential.”
The inauguration of the Africa AI Council marks a major stride in the continent’s efforts to position itself at the forefront of global AI development, ensuring that emerging technologies align with local realities and contribute to sustainable, people-centered progress.
