Ethiopia is harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to drive its economic growth and social development. Despite limited resources, the African nation is making strides in AI research and development, with initiatives like iCog Labs leading the charge. Based in Addis Ababa, iCog Labs is the first private AI lab in Africa and is behind the technology for Sophia, the world’s first robot citizen.
The Ethiopian government is backing AI development, recognising its potential in addressing national challenges. AI can help improve food security and healthcare, two critical areas for a country where the majority of the population is engaged in subsistence farming and access to healthcare is limited.
However, there are concerns about the ethical implications of AI. Critics argue that without proper regulation, AI could exacerbate existing inequalities, leading to job losses and privacy issues. They advocate for the creation of ethical guidelines and regulatory frameworks to ensure AI benefits all sections of society.
In response, Ethiopia is taking steps to create an ethical AI environment. It has established the Ethiopian AI Network, a body aimed at fostering collaboration and promoting ethical AI practices. The country is also investing in AI education, with Addis Ababa University launching an AI programme in 2019. These efforts highlight Ethiopia’s commitment to leveraging AI for social good, while also addressing potential risks.
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