Bioethics of AI in African Settings: Regulation Challenges

The world is embracing the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) in many different sectors, both government and private sector. Within the health sector, AI is regarded as a potential solution to enhance health system delivery. The biggest challenge in many African settings is that AI remains largely unregulated. In recognition of the implications AI has for the African continent, the African Union has released a draft Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy Harnessing AI for Africa’s Development and Prosperity in 2024. This strategy is guiding AU’s 55-member African states to develop regulation for AI within their various sectors. During the Bioethics Education International 2024 Winter School, this session will explore progress on the implementation of regulations or policies for AI in African countries. The session will further discuss regulation challenges faced by these countries, especially the health sector.