African AI Village at the Paris AI Action Summit

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming Africa, creating powerful opportunities to solve developmental challenges and drive innovation. Yet, African perspectives have been underrepresented at previous AI Action Summits. This has resulted in global strategies that don’t fully align with Africa’s realities.
The African AI Village aims to change that by amplifying African voices, showcasing innovation, and ensuring meaningful participation in global AI discussions. This dedicated space will position African stakeholders as key contributors to global AI policy and investment decisions.

Objectives of the African AI Village:

• Network & Collaborate: Connect African AI researchers, policymakers, industry leaders, and international partners.

• Share Knowledge & Expertise: Showcase African AI research, innovation, and best practices.

• Advocate for African Priorities: Promote inclusive and responsible AI development aligned with Africa’s needs.

• Build Capacity: Equip African stakeholders with the skills to engage globally.

• Showcase Excellence: Highlight African achievements and breakthroughs in AI.

Key Components:

1. Closed-Door Ministerial Program
High-level session for African and global policymakers.
Agenda Highlights:

• Welcome & Setting the Stage

• Roundtable: The Future of AI in Africa (Healthcare, Agriculture, Education, Climate)

• Launch of the AI Council for Africa

• Closing Remarks

2. Open Session: Showcasing African AI Excellence
Public forum highlighting African thought leadership.
Agenda Highlights:

• Opening Talk: “The State of AI in Africa”

• Panel: Shaping the Future of AI in Africa

• AI Innovation Showcase: Demos by startups and researchers

3. Roundtable: Funding the Future of African AI
Focused discussion on financing African AI initiatives.
Agenda Highlights:

• Identifying Funding Priorities

• Exploring Mechanisms (PPP, international aid, philanthropy)

• Roadmap for Action

4. Networking Cocktail
An informal setting for delegates and participants to connect.

5. Demo Section
Live demos by African AI startups and researchers.

6. African Women in AI Roundtable
Dedicated session to promote gender inclusion in African AI.

Expected Outcomes:

• Increased global visibility for African AI

• Stronger strategic partnerships

• Concrete action plans for AI development in Africa

• Resource commitments for sustainable ecosystem growth