- AI security is a major concern for African policymakers who are equally grappling with tools to harness the power of the new technology better to drive economic growth.
- Currently, Tanzania and other African countries are formulating AI security measures.
- Countries may not have to look far for guidance as the UK National Cyber Security Center (NCSC) has developed AI security guidelines that Africa can embrace.
AI security guidelines are increasingly becoming popular among developing countries as most African nations move to secure their cyber assets from the increasing threat of attacks. The need for Artificial Intelligence (AI) security comes even as governments and private sector leaders grapple with a myriad of options on how to tap the power of this new technology best to drive growth.
In East Africa, the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) has announced it is taking proactive steps to develop standards to ensure Artificial Intelligence (AI) safety and cyber security in the country.
Admitting that AI represents the future of global technological advancement, TBS’ Engineer Mohamed Kaila reaffirmed the bureau’s commitment to consumer safety.
Speaking at the Engineers’ Day celebrations in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, he said, “We are highlighting our preparations to ensure the quality of all items used in engineering projects, including those not traditionally associated with engineering, standards will be observed and we will ensure security is paramount.”
He reassured stakeholders that TBS engineers are proactively developing standards to manage the associated safety and security concerns related to the adoption of AI technology.
“By addressing emerging challenges and fostering collaboration, TBS aims to support the safe and effective integration of AI technologies into various sectors,” he said.
According to the TBS official, the ongoing development of AI standards is part of TBS’s broader commitment to advancing technology while safeguarding public interests.
He said that AI safety and security standards are essential for balancing innovation with ethical considerations and risk management, ensuring that AI technologies benefit society while minimising potential harm.
A Lecturer seconded him from the Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology’s (DIT) Department of Computer Studies, Dr Joseph, said worldwide, governments and standards organisations are working to establish regulatory frameworks for the ethical use and safety of AI.
“AI systems are built on complex mathematical models and algorithms, and it is inherently challenging to create a one-size-fits-all standard that can address the wide range of industries and applications where AI is used,” he explained.
He said Tanzania and most of the rest of Africa are currently only consumers of AI solutions; however, he said the responsible national organs like TBS must align themselves with global standards to ensure consumers’ security.
He said the country is collaborating with global AI regulatory bodies, such as the International Organisation for Standardization (ISO) and the European Union, to ensure that international standards account for the country’s unique social and economic context.
“By adopting and customising these global frameworks, Tanzania can better safeguard its interests while remaining aligned with international best practices,” Dr Nyansiro said.
He also urged TBS to focus on consumer rights and ensure that AI is used ethically, placing humanity first.
Other than advocating for regulations, he also called for a nationwide campaign to raise awareness on the responsible use of AI, its merits, and its downsides.
Read also: China’s $4.6Bn Loans to Africa Signal Strategic Shift Ahead of Key Forum.
AI in Africa, adaptation, security, merits and demerits
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a pivotal technology, driving innovation across various sectors, including healthcare, finance, education, and agriculture; how is Africa adopting this new technology?
“Developing countries, recognizing AI’s potential to accelerate economic growth and address pressing social issues, are increasingly investing in AI technologies. However, the rapid adoption of AI also poses significant challenges, particularly concerning security and compliance,” reports the UK’s National Cyber Security Center (NCSC).
Global guidelines for AI security
In its 2024 report titled ‘UK and US develop new global guidelines for AI security’, the NCSC calls for robust security measures and compliance with ethical standards and regulations as a crucial basis for leveraging AI’s benefits while minimizing risks.
Major security concerns in AI adoption include data privacy and protection because AI systems rely heavily on data, which makes data privacy and protection paramount to all AI users.
That being the fact; “In developing countries, where regulatory frameworks might be less mature, ensuring that personal and sensitive data is collected, stored, and processed securely is a critical concern.”
The NCSC warns that instead of setting up stringent data protection measures, Africa faces a heightened risk of data breaches, identity theft, and misuse of personal information.
“As AI systems become more integrated into critical infrastructure, they become attractive targets for cyber attacks. Developing countries often lack the sophisticated cyber security infrastructure needed to defend against such threats,” reads the report.
The authority advises African policymakers to ensure the security of AI systems by protecting them from unauthorized access, malware, and other cyber threats that could compromise their integrity and functionality.
Security in AI also encompasses ensuring that AI algorithms are fair and unbiased, the NCSC explains. The experts warn that the lack of diverse datasets can lead to biased AI systems that reinforce existing inequalities in developing countries.
“Addressing algorithmic bias is crucial to ensure that AI systems do not perpetuate discrimination or unfair practices,” insists the NCSC.
“Developing countries often face challenges in establishing and enforcing regulatory frameworks for AI. Effective regulation requires a balance between fostering innovation and ensuring that AI technologies are used responsibly,” the experts advise.
According to the NCSC, if Africa is to benefit from AI adaptations, then developing comprehensive AI policies and regulations that address data protection, ethical use, and accountability is essential.
“Compliance with ethical standards is critical to building trust in AI systems. This includes ensuring transparency in AI decision-making processes, protecting individual privacy, and preventing the misuse of AI technologies,” the report explains.
The authors urge developing countries to establish ethical guidelines to govern AI development and deployment, ensuring that these technologies are used for the benefit of society.
To this end, the experts urge African policymakers to adhere to international standards and best practices.
“Participation in global AI initiatives and collaborations can help these countries adopt and implement international standards, fostering a unified approach to AI governance,” they advise.
Then there is the need to develop robust data protection laws; “ Implementing strong data protection laws is a fundamental step in ensuring AI security and compliance. These laws should outline clear guidelines for data collection, storage, processing, and sharing, with strict penalties for non-compliance.”
“Developing countries can learn from established data protection frameworks, such as the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), to create their own regulations,” reads the report.
To achieve all these, Africa must invest in building its human resource capacity and expertise; “Capacity building is essential for developing countries to effectively manage AI security and compliance. This includes investing in education and training programs to develop AI expertise, fostering research and development in AI technologies, and encouraging knowledge sharing and collaboration.”
“Building a skilled workforce can help developing countries navigate the complexities of AI security and compliance,” NCSC advices.
African leaders are also urged to engage in international collaborations from which they can gain valuable resources and expertise to help address AI security and compliance challenges.
By participating in global AI initiatives, such as the Global Partnership on AI (GPAI), African authorities can gain knowledge on adopting international standards. As a consumer, Africa is encouraged to collaborate with other countries and organizations to gain access to technical assistance and funding opportunities.
Overall, “The integration of AI in developing countries presents significant opportunities and critical challenges. Ensuring robust security and compliance frameworks is essential for harnessing AI’s potential while mitigating risks. By developing strong data protection laws, investing in cybersecurity infrastructure, promoting ethical AI practices, building capacity and expertise, and engaging in international collaborations, developing countries can create a secure and compliant AI ecosystem.”
