The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Sam George, has called on African countries to develop their own Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems that recognise and preserve the continent’s languages, cultures and identities.
He said Africa’s participation in the rapidly evolving digital world should go beyond adopting technologies developed elsewhere, stressing the need for homegrown solutions that reflect the continent’s unique social and cultural realities.
Speaking at the 15th Africa Internet Governance Forum on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, Mr George identified the development of national language models as a key priority for African countries.
He noted that as AI continues to transform communication and access to information, African languages must not be left behind in the digital space.
“Language has a dual character. It is both a means of communication and a carrier of culture,” he said.
According to the minister, developing AI models that understand African languages would help protect the continent’s cultural identity while ensuring that its people can fully benefit from emerging technologies.
He further emphasised that African countries must take the lead in developing digital solutions that address their own challenges rather than depend entirely on technologies designed outside the continent.
“ African problems demand African solutions designed by Africans, for Africans, and grounded in African realities,” he stated.
Mr George also called for greater African participation in shaping the global digital environment, particularly in decisions concerning the standards and technologies that influence how people access information, make purchases and form opinions.
He warned that influential interests were already playing a major role in shaping the digital landscape, adding that Africa must not remain on the sidelines of decisions that could affect its future.
