Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Development in Africa
Transforming Lives Through Ethical AI
The AI4SDG initiative by the Next Step Foundation (NSF) is designed to bridge this gap by developing ethical, inclusive, and transformative AI solutions tailored to Africa’s unique challenges. Our work ensures that marginalized communities are not just consumers but active participants in AI-driven progress.
The Challenge: Why Africa Needs AI for Sustainable Development
Deploying AI in the Global South to achieve the United Nations SDHs presents unique challenges that require careful consideration and strategic planning.
Data availability and Quality
High-quality, relevant and timely data are crucial for training effective AI models.
Capacity and Skills Gap
Gap in local expertise and skills necessary to develop, deploy and maintain AI technologies.
Ethical and Social Implications
Issues such as algorithmic bias , privacy and the potential displacement of jobs are of particular concern.
Our Solution: AI4SDG’s Approach
Next Step Foundation’s Ai4SDG
Our goal is to ensure that AI development and deployment are conducive to enhancing human well-being, promoting cultural relevance, and diminishing bias and discrimination.
In alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Next Step Foundation’s Center for Ai4SDG through a strategic partnership with Assistive Technologies for Disability Trust (AT4D), a leading disability innovation organization focused on startup and inclusive innovation ecosystem development, will empower the Global South with AI that is synonymous with progress, equity, and sustainability and in accordance with the highest aspirations of human development as outlined by the SDGs
