Shukri Benmoussa, the High Commissioner for Planning, has called for the establishment of ethical frameworks to regulate the use of artificial intelligence, warning against the diversion of this technology towards military purposes instead of development. He emphasized that the ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding artificial intelligence would impede investment in vital sectors such as agriculture, education, health, and governance.
Benmoussa made these remarks during his participation in the second day of the national forum on artificial intelligence, organized by the Ministry of Digital Transition and Sustainable Development under the auspices of King Mohammed VI.
He pointed out the necessity of supporting local initiatives with regional alliances and strategies that respect the unique characteristics of African nations and align with the Africa 2063 agenda. He stressed that the absence of such alliances hinders the optimal and responsible use of artificial intelligence and delays the establishment of effective regulatory frameworks.
In a discussion session on “Developing Integration and Cooperation Among Southern Countries in the Field of Artificial Intelligence,” Benmoussa stated that it is challenging for any single Southern nation to confront the challenges posed by this rapid technology alone, calling for the development of tools and software that serve everyone and enhance local capacity building.
The former government official noted that cooperation in artificial intelligence should not be exclusive to developed countries; instead, Southern nations should be empowered to participate in shaping and implementing regulatory standards, fostering inter-country cooperation to achieve a balanced international framework in this domain.
Benmoussa, as the head of the New Development Model Committee, highlighted that there are active strategies and discussions within the African Union regarding artificial intelligence, but they require stronger support to achieve their objectives. He called for the exchange of experiences, the provision of training and research opportunities, and the engagement of governments and civil society in this process.
He emphasized that current initiatives are still in their early stages, yet they provide a foundation that must be strengthened to amplify the voice of Southern countries in international forums. He added that artificial intelligence is no longer just a future tool; it has become a critical element in economic and social transformations, impacting the economies of nations.
Benmoussa noted that artificial intelligence goes beyond enhancing productivity; it also reshapes decision-making processes, making it a strategic pillar for transformation. However, he cautioned against challenges associated with it, such as algorithmic biases, ethical and democratic stakes, particularly concerning digital sovereignty and transparency.
He called for a national mobilization to unify visions and define clear objectives for the secure and ethical development of artificial intelligence, while enhancing cooperation among various stakeholders within each country.
He concluded his address by emphasizing the need to expand regional and international cooperation if developing countries wish to provide realistic solutions to their social challenges, stressing that artificial intelligence has become a fierce arena for competition among major powers, from the United States to China, with each side striving to establish itself as a key player in advanced technologies.
