The rules of global Artificial Intelligence are being written right now, and Africa must be at the drafting table. The United Nations is currently calling for inputs to the Global Dialogue on AI Governance, a landmark initiative designed to shape international cooperation and ensure inclusive AI development worldwide.
To ensure the continent’s priorities are firmly embedded in this framework, Lawyers Hub recently convened a critical working session, hosted and moderated by our CEO, Linda Bonyo.
Understanding the UN’s AI Architecture: During the dialogue, we unpacked the UN's emerging AI governance scaffolding, which has evolved from the High-level Panel in 2018 to the Global Digital Compact adopted in 2024. The architecture relies on core pillars such as the Office for Digital and Emerging Technologies (ODET) and the Independent Scientific Panel, which comprises 40 experts who will provide annual evidence-based assessments on AI risks and opportunities.
Moving from Consumers to Producers: Our expert panelists stressed that Africa must not merely absorb frameworks built for other regions. Dr. Mactar Seck of the UN Economic Commission for Africa and Professor Vukosi Marivate urged a shift from being consumers to active producers of AI. Africa requires its own standards, localized data centers, and culturally nuanced AI that understands African languages. Dr. Mehdi Snene from ODET outlined the timeline for action, noting that the inaugural Global Dialogue session will take place in Geneva in July 2026.
The Window for Action is Closing: Success in Geneva will be structural, not performative. With the UN submission deadline extended to May 7th, 2026, the time to shape the agenda is now. We cannot afford to leave the continent's digital future to chance.
Taking the Conversation to the Global Stage
Watch the full session recording below.
Take Action: Submit your inputs to the UN before the May 7th deadline!
