The Principal Investigator of the Responsible Artificial Intelligence Lab (RAIL), Prof Jerry John Kponyo says there must be a critical look at the data privacy protection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) users to lessen potential harm.

“Privacy of users of AI must be protected to ensure trust and reduce harm. Though this might be challenging, it will lead to further innovation in the Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning space.”

His comments come on the back of a report showing that 36 of 55 African countries have implemented data protection laws, and only 24 out of the 36 countries have set up data protection agencies to enforce these laws.

The Responsible Artificial Intelligence Lab (RAIL) team led by Prof Kponyo visited Satellite Labs at the University of Cabo Verde, Cabo Verde and Université Cheikh Anta Diop (UCAD), Senegal.

The team had engagements with Mr Jose Maria Neves, President of the Republic of Cabo Verde, Carla Grijó, Ambassador of the European Union to Cabo Verde and Prof Arlindo Barreto, Rector of the University of Cabo Verde.

Discussions centered on the significant gap in digital development in Africa, and the need for Africans to take responsibility for their affairs and use AI for the common good. They also discussed the second phase of the lab.

Prof Kponyo emphasized RAIL’s resolve to strengthen the consortium of labs at KNUST and partner institutions for maximum gains.

“The work we can do together goes beyond AI because three countries and universities work closely with industry for a bigger collaboration. Like a mustard seed, as we constantly water and nurture this collaboration, we will grow into the biggest tree and impact the world with our fruits.”

A fully furnished Responsible and Smart Solutions Lab (RS² Lab) was inaugurated to train local talent in research, innovation and development of multidisciplinary responsible AI and smart solutions.