Africa is embracing a technological revolution that promises to reshape the continent’s healthcare landscape. A new report from the Science for Africa Foundation (SFA Foundation) highlights the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and data science in driving Africa’s health sector growth, with national-level perspectives on AI’s potential to transform healthcare. The report, titled Governance of Artificial Intelligence for Global Health in Africa, aims to establish AI frameworks that are specifically tailored to the continent’s needs, particularly in the face of growing health challenges.
The comprehensive report, developed through consultations across 43 African countries, sheds light on the current state of AI adoption in Africa’s health sector. With input from over 300 stakeholders, including government bodies, policymakers, researchers, and healthcare professionals, the report presents a detailed view of AI’s growing role in advancing global health within Africa.
Prof. Tom Kariuki, CEO of the SFA Foundation, emphasized that the global AI governance framework remains inadequate for Africa’s specific health needs. “Our report champions a shift towards frameworks that reflect Africa’s context, ensuring ethical, equitable, and impactful applications of AI not only for our continent’s health challenges but also to advance global health,” said Kariuki. This highlights a crucial aspect of the report: the need for governance structures that align with Africa’s unique socio-economic and cultural landscapes.
The report paints a promising picture of AI’s potential in Africa, with numerous countries launching national AI programs. Notable examples include Nigeria’s National Centre for AI and Robotics and Rwanda’s Seed Investment Fund, which are fostering innovation through investments in AI startups. Nations such as Mauritius, Ethiopia, Ghana, and Senegal are also prioritizing AI for healthcare, underscoring the continent’s commitment to improving health outcomes using advanced technology.
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding AI, the report identifies critical gaps in governance frameworks. While many African nations have embraced AI in healthcare, many still lack comprehensive policies specifically addressing the responsible deployment of AI within the health sector. Existing AI frameworks, though substantial, often fail to incorporate essential elements like gender equity and regional inclusivity. These shortcomings could exacerbate disparities in access to AI-driven healthcare innovations, resulting in unequal health outcomes across urban and rural regions.
Dr. Uzma Alam, Programme Lead of the Science Policy Engagement with Africa’s Research (SPEAR) programme, stressed the importance of integrating gender, urban-rural dynamics, and indigenous knowledge into AI health governance. “Incorporating AI into healthcare is not just about technology—it’s about enhancing our policy frameworks to ensure these advancements lead to better health outcomes for all Africans,” said Dr. Alam. This vision calls for adaptive policies that ensure innovation is balanced with equitable access, providing an opportunity for Africa to lead the way in the global health sector.
Furthermore, the report advocates for increased regional collaboration and partnerships with the informal sector. Africa’s informal health providers, who serve a large portion of the population, must be included in AI health strategies to maximize the benefits of these technological advancements.
The SFA Foundation’s report is not just an analysis but a call to action for African governments, institutions, and the private sector to strengthen the policy frameworks surrounding AI in healthcare. It recommends the creation of AI governance frameworks that are tailored to Africa’s specific needs, ensuring that AI’s growth does not exacerbate existing inequities. At least 35 African countries already have national policies on science, technology, and innovation (STI), ICT, and health research that can serve as a foundation for these AI policies.
The report also advocates for the inclusion of local perspectives, particularly from women and rural communities, to ensure that AI-driven health solutions are accessible to all Africans. By integrating such voices into the policy-making process, African nations can ensure that AI technologies are used in ways that benefit the entire population, including marginalized groups.
Africa’s embrace of AI in healthcare is a step toward improving public health outcomes, but it requires careful policy planning and governance. The findings of this report provide an essential roadmap for integrating AI into Africa’s healthcare strategies. By addressing the existing gaps in governance and prioritizing equitable access, Africa can become a leader in AI-driven health innovation, making significant strides toward solving some of the continent’s most pressing health challenges.
The SFA Foundation’s report offers a critical insight into how AI can play a transformative role in Africa’s healthcare system. As AI continues to evolve, its potential to improve health outcomes, enhance access to medical services, and foster innovation will be pivotal to the continent’s development in the coming decades. It is now up to policymakers, stakeholders, and healthcare leaders to harness this potential responsibly and effectively for the benefit of all Africans.