Episode 28

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Published on:

4th Jun 2026

How Africa Can Build AI on Its Own Terms

Africa’s AI future is not predetermined but will be shaped by the policy choices and partnerships made today. In this episode, Andrew Dabalen speaks with Dr. Chinasa Okolo, a leading expert on AI governance and contributor to the African Union’s AI strategy, about what it will take for Africa to shape its own AI future. The discussion explores the concept of AI sovereignty, highlighting the importance of local capacity, data governance, and context-specific solutions to ensure AI supports inclusive and sustainable development across the continent.

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About the Podcast

Afronomics
Podcast series of World Bank Africa Region
This occasional podcast series brings together development experts, academics and thought leaders, as well as public and private sector partners, to discuss trends that are impacting growth and development in Africa. Afronomics was started in 2017 and is now hosted by Andrew Dabalen, the World Bank Chief Economist for Africa. The series spans a wide range of topics from health and education to jobs, infrastructure, debt, and economic challenges and opportunities in Africa.

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World Bank Podcast Team