Data Innovation Centre for Artificial Intelligence

 

The development of artificial intelligence (AI) in Africa faces several challenges that need to be overcome for its efficient adoption and implementation in support of sustainable development. For example, studies indicate many shortcomings in terms of data as well as insufficient skills and AI innovations in key sectors such as agriculture, health, environment and transport.

The Data Innovation Centre for AI seeks to address these shortcomings within Senegal and beyond through a multidisciplinary collaboration with practitioners in data, AI, agriculture, health and the environment. This project will support strengthening skills in data and AI and the production and sharing of reliable, high-quality data with decision-makers in priority sectors. It will also foster the development of inclusive and responsible AI resources and innovations that benefit communities. Similarly, the project will take up the challenge of inclusion through a mechanism to integrate more women as well as people from disadvantaged groups (such as people living with disabilities) into the data and AI ecosystem.

This project is a part of the Artificial Intelligence for Development (AI4D) program, a five-year partnership between IDRC and the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office to support policy, innovations and expanded leadership to spur safe and responsible AI development and use in Africa. The vision of the new partnership is to support an inclusive, responsible AI ecosystem that improves quality of life for all in Africa and beyond.