African Union: Delegates at the Global AI Summit on Africa signed Africa Declaration on Artificial Intelligence including data governance commitments

On 4 April 2025, delegates at the Global AI Summit on Africa signed the Africa Declaration on Artificial Intelligence. The Declaration highlights the establishment of a framework for African open datasets and open AI models, with the goal of improving data collection, digitisation, and interoperability across several sectors such as health, education, agriculture, and climate resilience. In line with the AU Data Policy Framework and relevant national legislation, the Declaration also calls for the development of robust data governance systems. These include standardisation of formats and protocols, as well as measures to ensure data security, privacy, and inclusive access that reflects the diverse needs of African communities.