from OKORO CHINEDU in Lagos, Nigeria
Nigeria Bureau
LAGOS, (CAJ News) – AFRICA’S technological voice has been strongly amplified on the world stage with the appointment of eight African experts to the United Nations’ Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence (AI) — a newly established global body aimed at guiding the rapid evolution of AI and ensuring it benefits all humanity.
The panel, recommended by UN Secretary-General António Guterres on Friday and submitted to the UN General Assembly for approval, comprises 40 specialists from around the world who will serve in their personal capacity, offering independent, evidence-based assessments of how AI transforms economies, societies and governance.
Guterres said the body will be “the first global, fully independent scientific body dedicated to helping close the AI knowledge gap and assess the real impacts of AI across economies and societies.”
He emphasised that “AI is moving at the speed of light. No country can see the full picture alone,” stressing the need for shared understanding, cooperation and science-based policy frameworks.
The African members selected reflect the continent’s growing leadership in AI research, innovation and digital inclusion with tech experts comprising Nigeria’s Prof. Rita Orji, who is renowned for her research in human-centred computing and AI’s role in improving user experience.
South Africa’s Vukosi Marivate is an AI researcher and professor known for pioneering work in machine learning and natural language processing for African languages, co-founder of Masakhane and Deep Learning Indaba, driving inclusive AI research with Joyce Nakatumba-Nabende from Uganda, who is an AI and computer science expert with emphasis on applications for development.
Senegal’s AI research scientist at Google Brain, Adji Bousso Dieng, specialised in deep learning and probabilistic models and bridging advanced AI research with global applications with Burkina Faso’s Tegawendé, an African expert representing West Africa’s growing contributions to AI science.
Other notable Africans comprise Awa Bousso Dramé from Cabo Verde, who is widely recognised for academic leadership and AI development unique to small island contexts, Mennatallah El-Assady of Egypt, a specialist in data governance and AI ethics, bridging technology and human rights concerns with Ethiopia’s Girmaw Abebe Tadesse, who represents East Africa, but contributes to AI science and innovation discussions.
The Independent International Scientific Panel on AI was established under UN General Assembly Resolution A/RES/79/325 to provide scientific insights into how AI is reshaping modern life.
Its mandate includes informing policymakers, identifying risks and opportunities, and ensuring that AI development aligns with global sustainable development goals — including reducing inequalities, protecting human rights, and driving economic growth.
AI is transforming industries — from healthcare, where predictive models accelerate diagnostics, to agriculture, finance, education and environmental protection.
It boosts productivity, creates new job categories, and unlocks opportunities for entrepreneurs and small businesses across Africa, while also posing challenges such as ethical risks, digital divides and workforce transitions.
By including African voices in global AI governance, the UN recognises the importance of inclusive, diverse perspectives in shaping technology that serves all regions equitably — not just developed economies.
This appointment highlights Africa’s rising influence in science and technology and paves the way for a future where AI contributes to peace, prosperity and shared human progress.
– CAJ News