Webinar Jan 17: The Impact of AI on Data Collection, Exploitation, Protection, and Privacy in Africa (17 Jan 2024)

As Davos meets this week with big plans to monopolize data, Diplomats are meeting online to discuss ways to protect Africans from Data exploitation

Webinar: The Impact of AI on Data Collection, Exploitation, Protection, and Privacy in Africa (17 Jan.)

Join us as we explore the transformative impact of advancing AI technologies on data collection, exploitation, protection, and privacy in Africa, focusing on the implications of AI use across various domains.

By examining the Malabo Convention, this webinar aims to assess the risks and challenges in data-related domains, explore opportunities, highlight ethical considerations, and propose policy recommendations.

Join us on 17 January 2024, 13:30–15:00 UTC (16:30–18:00 Nairobi time)

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The impact of AI on data collection, exploitation, protection, and privacy in Africa

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17 January 2024

Nairobi and online

Event description

The rapid advancement of AI technologies has brought about transformative changes in various sectors globally. In Africa, where the adoption of digital technologies is on the rise, the impact of AI on data collection, exploitation, protection, and privacy is becoming increasingly significant. The webinar will explore the multifaceted implications of AI use in these domains and to propose considerations for ensuring responsible and ethical use. The deployment of AI raises critical questions regarding data protection and privacy, necessitating a thorough examination of its impact on the African continent.

The African Union (AU) Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection, also known as the Malabo Convention, is a legal framework for addressing cybercrime and data protection in Africa. The convention, adopted by the AU in 2014, is a critical tool for protecting personal data and preventing cybercrime on the continent.

The Malabo Convention is now in effect. Article 36 of the Malabo Convention says that the treaty will come into effect when there are 15 ratifications. Mauritania ratified the convention in May 2023, becoming the 15th African country to do so. And the convention came into effect 30 days later, in June 2023.

Following this important development, the webinar aims to:

1. Examine the current landscape: Investigate the existing state of AI deployment in data collection, exploitation, protection, and privacy in Africa, including case studies and notable initiatives.

2. Assess risks and challenges: Identify potential risks and challenges associated with AI implementation in data-centric domains, with a specific focus on the African context.

3. Explore opportunities: Investigate how AI can positively contribute to efficient data collection, improved exploitation for socio-economic development, and enhanced protection of privacy rights.

4. Highlight ethical considerations: Analyse the ethical implications of AI in data-centric applications, emphasising the need for responsible AI practices that align with cultural, social, and legal norms in African countries.

Propose policy recommendations: Develop a set of policy recommendations for governments, businesses, and civil society to ensure the responsible use of AI in data-related domains, emphasising the protection of privacy and human rights.

Time of the event
4:30pm-6:00pm Nairobi time

Agenda:

Introduction (5 minutes)

• Welcome and Opening Remarks

• Brief Introduction to the Webinar’s Theme

Session 1: Overview of AI in Africa (10 minutes)

Open panel

• Current State of AI Adoption in Africa

• Key Applications of AI in Various Sectors

• Challenges and Opportunities

Session 2: Data Protection and Privacy Challenges (30 minutes)

Panelists: Tyrus Muya Kamau, Immaculate Kassait, Mercy Mutemi, Moctar Yedaly

• Overview of Data Protection Regulations in African Countries

• Ratification of the Africa union convention on cybersecurity and personal data protection Malabo convention

• Risks and Concerns Related to AI and Privacy

• Strategies for Mitigating Privacy Risks

Session 3: Data Collection and Exploitation in the AI Era (30 minutes)

Panelists: John Walubengo, Abdul-Hakeem Ajijola, Shikoli Makatiani

• Role of AI in Enhancing Data Collection

• Case Studies on AI-Driven Data Collection Projects in Africa

• Ethical Considerations and Potential Biases

• How AI is Transforming Data into Actionable Insights

• Examples of AI-Driven Decision-Making in African Contexts

• Societal and Economic Impacts

Q&A Session (10 minutes)

• Open Floor for Questions from Participants

• Panel Discussion with Experts

Closing Remarks (5 minutes)

• Summary of Key Takeaways

• Thanking Speakers, Participants, and Sponsors

• Information on Future Webinars or Resources

Join us on 17 January 2024, 13:30–15:00 UTC (16:30–18:00 Nairobi time)