The Lawyers Hub, in collaboration with the African Parliamentary Network on Internet Governance (APNIG), officially launched the AI & Democracy Working Group on October 31, 2024. This initiative, under the Africa AI Policy Lab, aims to address AI's role in shaping democratic processes across Africa. The working group serves as a platform for policy experts, AI professionals, lawmakers, parliament members, and civil society to collaboratively address AI's unique challenges and opportunities in African democratic contexts.

In South Africa, On 14 August 2024, the Department of Communications and Digital Development published the draft National AI Policy Framework for public input. Anyone can comment on the draft AI Policy Framework by sending an email to dsondlo@dcdt.gov.za and mmashologu@dcdt.gov.za before the end of September 2024.

The Mauritius Emerging Technologies Council is inviting public input on the National AI Policy for Mauritius. The council is seeking feedback on key focus areas for the policy, the potential economic and social impacts of AI on the country, and the ethical considerations in developing AI technologies. This public consultation aims to ensure that the policy addresses relevant concerns and supports responsible AI development in Mauritius.

Digital technology's impact on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) includes significant opportunities for innovation and development but also presents risks such as privacy erosion, misinformation, and inequality. Effective regulation and multi-stakeholder collaboration are essential in areas like artificial intelligence (AI) and cross-border data flows to ensure responsible and ethical use while maximizing the benefits for global prosperity.

Draft Guidelines Developed following UNESCO Survey on the Use of AI by Judicial Operators