Introduction

Artificial Intelligence (AI) discourse is focused on the emerging theoretical debate that relates to AI and responsibility, commonly known as Responsible AI.¹ The debate has evolved into various policy initiatives globally, totalling 315 policy initiatives that discuss ethics and responsibility, amongst other thematic areas. ² Despite the overwhelming evidence of Responsible AI discourse, there is a lack of consensus within stakeholders as to the definition and application of Responsible AI.³ Assessing the applicability of Responsible AI within the Global South, there is a mismatch as the definition is rooted within a Global North narrative thus, the definition is one that fails to contextualise the realities of the Global South.⁴ The following article aims to explore the “reconceptualization”⁵ of Responsible AI within an African lens, where discussion will be centred around formulating a definition that is applicable within the African context in the development, deployment and regulation of AI.

What is Responsible Artificial Intelligence? An African definition

Responsible AI can be characterised as designing AI systems to be reflective of human sensitivity and values that are shaped by societal beliefs and expectations.⁶ This allows us to understand AI through a ‘socio-technical lens’ that prompts recognition of its interactions with society and its actors.⁷ Therefore, unlocking a holistic view of AI, where our perspectives go beyond its technical origins and extends to acknowledging the “human and institutional dimensions” of the application of AI.⁸ This allows for further interrogation on the structures of power, participation and access that influence how AI is defined, structured and applied. It is against this background that the notion of responsibility derives relevance within AI. This allows for deep interrogation to assess which principles and objectives guide the development of Responsible AI. ⁹ Furthermore, given that we exist in a pluralistic world with competing conceptions of value, who has the decision-making power to incorporate these principles and objectives?¹⁰

The shaping of Responsible AI finds its roots within a Western philosophical approach that is centred on the belief of “Cogito ergo sum” (I think therefore I am).¹¹ The belief is a product of utilitarianism that prioritises individuality and rationality as grounds for value alignment when designing responsible AI systems.¹² Essentially, this overlooks different realities that do not conform to the belief. Outside the ‘Western philosophical experience,’ we have philosophical approaches that prioritise a “relational conceptualisation of AI”, where there is a relational stance to assessing how AI is designed and utilised. ¹³

A key example of this includes Ubuntu. The value has gained traction within the African context as a general value in conceptualising African morality and way of life. It involves a community dynamic that is inclusive of “interconnectedness”¹⁴ that equates to the maxim of “I am because we are”. ¹⁵ The value gains legitimacy within a communal setting , where focus goes beyond one’s own needs to being cognizant of the needs of those around them.¹⁶ This underpinning of Ubuntu encourages focus on moral actions that foster connection and inclusivity rather than separation and individual gain. Additionally, we have other key African values that are relational in nature such as Ujamma, that embraces “the spirit of brotherhood” with the underpinning maxim of “I am because you are”.¹⁷ This allows for deep interrelation, where there is no intrinsic , separate existence of individuals rather existence is rooted through community. ¹⁸ This promotes a “ sense of profound responsibility for others.”¹⁹

Ubuntu as a framework for Responsible AI in the African context

Appreciating the need for conscious value alignment in designing Responsible African AI , we seek to explore how Ubuntu would be actualised within AI development.²⁰ Ubuntu encourages a participatory approach to AI development , where it seeks to incorporate a grass roots level approach to the design and implementation of AI technologies. This allows for contextualisation in the design and implementation of AI technologies. Therefore, with conscious design and localised implementation of AI technologies , local needs and challenges are considered , fostering a sense of ownership and trust amongst stakeholders.

Key illustrations include the health sector, where Ubuntu ethics would represent an African perspective in general discourse regarding medical ethics and AI.²¹ This would assist with “decolonising” the influence of Western biomedical ethical principles in creating general healthcare ethical standards that govern the development and use of these AI technologies. ²²The use of Ubuntu ethics would streamline AI technologies in healthcare to ensure the systems are trustworthy and aligned to African local contexts .²³ Therefore the “inclusive and culturally sensitive” nature of Ubuntu ethics would assist with addressing diversity and inclusivity issues of AI systems , allowing the technologies to be “developed, designed and deployed in a manner that is equitable and fair to all members of society including the marginalized groups”. ²⁴ Therefore promoting accountability for the AI technologies that is holistic in nature as it goes beyond assessing impact from the lens of an individual to appreciating the impact it has on communities as a whole.²⁵

Moving on to the African agricultural sector, the use of ubuntu in guiding the design, development and development of responsible African AI would allow for the promotion of equitable and accessible AI solutions. This would ensure that the design of these solutions are of beneficial impact to all agricultural stakeholders regardless of their socioeconomic status, location or scale of operation. Additionally , the value encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing , as it emphasizes the importance of community and collective well-being. In the agricultural context, this can manifest as a focus on community-driven development, ensuring that AI solutions benefit the broader agricultural ecosystem, including smallholder farmers, cooperatives, and local communities. By fostering a sense of ownership and engagement among farmers and stakeholders, Ubuntu-inspired AI can contribute to a more resilient and thriving agricultural sector.

Conclusion

The reconceptualization of Responsible AI through the lens of Ubuntu presents a transformative opportunity for the development, deployment, and regulation of AI technologies in Africa. By emphasizing community involvement and the interconnectedness of individuals, Ubuntu fosters an approach that prioritizes local values, cultural relevance, and ethical considerations. This participatory framework not only enhances the effectiveness of AI systems but also builds trust and ownership among stakeholders, ensuring that technologies are designed to meet the unique challenges faced by African societies. Therefore, the establishment of governance and policy frameworks that reflect Ubuntu values is essential for promoting transparency, accountability, and ethical standards in AI development.

Image Source:”Maker Faire Africa 2010 – Nairobi” by Maker Faire Africa is licensed under CC BY 2.0.