Mozambique Signs the Africa Declaration on AI — What Comes Next?

On April 4, 2025, at the Global AI Summit in Kigali, Mozambique joined 53 other African nations in signing the Africa Declaration on Artificial Intelligence — a bold and strategic step toward inclusive, ethical, and sustainable AI development across the continent.

This is more than symbolism: it's a commitment to shape AI in ways that reflect African values, priorities, and realities.

Why it Matters for Mozambique

Mozambique's endorsement of the Declaration opens up a range of transformative possibilities:

Building TalentThe Declaration emphasizes investment in education and capacity-building. Mozambique can seize this moment to introduce AI-focused curricula in universities and training centers, nurturing the next generation of data scientists, engineers, and ethicists.
Modernizing InfrastructureWith support from continental initiatives, Mozambique could gain access to distributed AI infrastructure — critical to making AI more accessible beyond just major cities.
Strengthening Data SovereigntyBy aligning with the African Union's Data Policy Framework, we have the opportunity to shape robust, context-aware data governance — enabling innovation while protecting citizens' rights.
Stimulating InnovationWith an "Africa-first" approach to AI procurement and funding support (like the proposed $60B Africa AI Fund), startups and innovators in Mozambique may find new room to grow — especially in fintech, healthtech, agritech, and education.

The Road Ahead

Mozambique can now take key steps to translate this commitment into impact:

Craft a National AI Strategy that reflects both continental aspirations and national priorities.
Invest in digital infrastructure to support AI experimentation and development.
Promote local innovation ecosystems by fostering public-private partnerships.
Champion ethical and inclusive AI that serves people, respects culture, and drives development.

There is a long journey ahead, but Mozambique is no longer on the sidelines — we are at the table, helping define what AI should look like in Africa.