By Thomas Alama Etalong
Scholars, policymakers, technology experts and development practitioners have called for the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence to advance sustainable development, ethical governance and organisational transformation across Africa and the Global South.
The call was made at the International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Organizational Agility in Africa and the Global South, held from 25–26 June 2026 at the Peter Mbah Auditorium, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Nigeria.
Organised by the ACE Intercontinental Research Institute, in collaboration with the Open and Distance Learning Centre, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, and Learn to Live Business School, United Kingdom, the conference examined how AI can support innovation, governance and sustainable development.
Participants noted that AI is already transforming public administration, healthcare, education, agriculture, cybersecurity, business and workforce management. However, they stressed that its adoption must be guided by transparency, fairness, accountability, privacy protection and human-centred governance.
Presenters highlighted AI’s potential to improve public health surveillance, strengthen cybersecurity, enhance educational outcomes, support transparent governance and promote organisational resilience. They also warned that weak digital infrastructure, limited technical expertise, high implementation costs and ethical risks could limit Africa’s ability to benefit fully from AI.
Delegates urged African governments and institutions to invest in digital infrastructure, research capacity, workforce training and locally relevant AI policies. They also called for stronger collaboration among universities, governments, industry and civil society to ensure AI contributes meaningfully to the Sustainable Development Goals.
The conference concluded with a commitment to promote responsible AI research, international partnerships and practical innovation capable of improving governance, service delivery and inclusive economic growth across Africa and the Global South.
Contributing Author: Thomas Alama Etalong is Director of Research at ACE Intercontinental Research Institute, Enugu, Nigeria.
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