AI Expansion Reshapes Africa and Middle East

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming both Africa and the Middle East, with notable developments such as the UAE's Stargate AI initiative—supported by OpenAI and Oracle—fueling major data center expansion and aiming to provide AI as a commodity across the region. In Africa, experts stress the risks of depending on foreign AI models, particularly the potential for imported biases and the need for locally relevant solutions. Community-driven, decentralized AI projects in countries like Algeria are highlighted as essential for building inclusive and practical AI systems. There is growing concern that Africa's AI talent may be exported rather than retained for local innovation due to insufficient domestic market opportunities. Experts emphasize the need for targeted investment in infrastructure and governance to ensure AI's benefits are equitably shared. With proper strategies, AI is projected to contribute trillions to Africa’s economy by 2030.