Africa’s Role in Shaping Global AI Governance Highlighted by SAP Official
Sunil Genes, Director of Global Government Affairs and Africa CSR at SAP, emphasizes that Africa must not just be a passive recipient of artificial intelligence (AI) developments but should actively participate in shaping its trajectory. He argues that the continent’s involvement is crucial to foster inclusion, investment, and economic growth through sustained collective efforts.
Launch of the AI for Good Global Commission
Genes’ remarks come on the heels of the announcement of the AI for Good Global Commission, introduced by international leaders as part of a broader initiative to enhance access to AI, bolster trust in technology, and amplify its socio-economic impacts. This commission aims to create a strategic framework for unlocking AI’s potential while ensuring equitable access across different demographics.
First Meeting Scheduled at ITU Summit
The inaugural meeting of the commission is set to take place at the International Telecommunication Union’s (ITU) AI for Good Global Summit from July 7 to 10 in Geneva, Switzerland. This summit is part of Digital Week, which runs parallel to the first UN-mandated Global Dialogue on AI Governance and the WSIS Forum 2026.
A Focus on Economic Inclusion and Growth
Participating in the summit discussions, Genes stresses that Africa should approach global AI governance with a well-defined agenda prioritizing economic growth and inclusion. He believes the continent should tackle its challenges with boldness, advocating for AI governance strategies that promote widespread prosperity.
Transforming AI Strategy into Action
Genes advocates transforming the African Union’s continental AI strategy from a mere document into actionable national roadmaps, investment pipelines, and frameworks for regional cooperation. This concept of ‘tech diplomacy’ calls for 54 African countries to unite in their initiatives, rather than negotiate as fragmented voices.
Strengthening Africa’s Representation
The commission’s commitment to enhancing Africa’s representation has been bolstered by the appointment of Rwandan President Paul Kagame as co-chair, alongside Salesforce Chairman and CEO Marc Benioff. This leadership aims to amplify the African perspective in global AI discussions.
Addressing the Digital Divide
The ITU has highlighted that the commission’s aim is to promote fair access to AI and work towards narrowing the global digital divide. Currently, an estimated 2.2 billion people lack internet access, which excludes about a quarter of the world’s population from the advantages AI can offer.
Technology as a Force for Good
In remarks at the summit, President Kagame reiterated that technology should serve to mitigate inequalities and broaden access to the benefits of AI. He urged collaborative efforts to ensure technology is wielded positively, fostering a more inclusive digital landscape.
The Need for Collective Leadership
Marc Benioff emphasized that the economic potential of AI hinges on maintaining public trust. He stated that fostering an environment of trust is essential for sharing the benefits of AI across societies. Meanwhile, Doreen Bogdan-Martin, ITU Secretary-General and Commission Vice-Chair, pointed out that effective AI deployment requires cross-sector collaboration to ensure its advantages reach all corners of the globe.
