Africa is rapidly adopting artificial intelligence (AI), but the continent faces a critical challenge: ensuring that this technological advancement prioritizes citizen well-being, privacy, and human dignity.

• A key discussion point at Digital@UNGA 2026 highlighted the dilemma of AI-driven urban management systems that could compromise citizen privacy.
• Organizations like the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) are actively promoting African innovation for local challenges, exemplified by the upcoming ECA Innovation Cafe in Accra.
• Kenya is presented as a model, with its AI Strategy 2025–2030 and developing AI policy framework emphasizing responsible development, governance, and public trust, underpinned by constitutional protections for privacy.