The African Centre for Economic Transformation (ACET) is taking a decisive step forward in 2025, ramping up its efforts in artificial intelligence (AI) policy across the continent. Known for its deep expertise in economic development, ACET has announced an expanded agenda that puts AI, data use, and digital public infrastructure at the heart of its work.
A Bold Continuation from 2024
Building on the momentum of its 2024 initiatives, ACET is moving into this year with a clear plan. According to its annual report, the think tank is launching a tailored programme helping African governments plan for and navigate AI’s complex landscape—anticipating both opportunities and potential pitfalls.
From Simulations to Strategic Policy Impact
Central to ACET’s strategy is the idea of running simulations in selected African countries. These AI-forward simulations are designed to give policymakers actionable insights—whether for budgeting, regulatory frameworks, or improving public service delivery. By linking data analytics with real-world governance tools, the aim is to craft policies that are proactive rather than reactive.
Technical Support Meets Digital Infrastructure
ACET’s approach marries technical assistance with infrastructure development. In 2024, the organisation supported several governments and central banks in embedding AI considerations into economic policymaking and tested new data sources for tracking national activity. These initiatives helped shape a playbook that combines analytics, policy design, and capacity building.
Fostering Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing
Recognising that AI policy is as much about shared learning as it is about technical tools, ACET has taken steps to build broader dialogue. Its Community of Practice—featuring policymakers, researchers, and civil society—serves as a hub for peer learning and spread of best practices. Through public dialogues, ACET’s goal is to ensure AI adoption doesn’t simply widen gaps but drives inclusive, data-driven governance.
Why This Matters — And Why Now
- AI Is Not the Future—It’s Already Here
From AI-powered credit scoring to predictive analytics in agriculture, governments increasingly depend on AI to deliver services and manage resources. Yet, policy and infrastructure often lag behind the tech itself. - Africa Needs Contextualised AI Policy
Having a continent-wide think tank like ACET focus on AI ensures solutions are tailored to the diverse socio-economic landscapes of African nations—not off-the-shelf solutions from the Global North. - Data Infrastructure Drives Responsible Innovation
AI thrives when data ecosystems are strong. By emphasising digital public infrastructure, ACET is laying the groundwork for AI tools that governments can adopt responsibly, without excluding marginalised communities. - Bridging the Governance Gap
The convergence of analytics and policymaking helps governments anticipate risks—algorithmic bias, job disruption, inequality—rather than react after the fact. - Peer Learning Elevates Together
AI policy isn’t just about legislation; it’s about building a shared understanding. ACET’s dialogue platforms amplify such collaboration—so countries don’t reinvent the wheel but raise each other up.
A Personal Reflection from the Editor
As a Nigerian editor, I see ACET’s initiative as a signal for West Africa and beyond. We are at a crossroads—where technology, regulation, and inclusion must meet. ACET’s methodical, multi-layered approach offers a template: a blend of technical capacity building, policy foresight, and civic engagement.
It reminds me of when we introduced mobile banking in Nigeria. The early days of USSD codes were exciting—but without consumer protection and digital literacy, things could have spiralled. ACET’s move mirrors the lessons learned: innovation must walk hand-in-hand with regulation and accessibility.
Looking Ahead
What to Watch In 2025 and Beyond:
- Which countries will host ACET’s AI simulations?
- How will these pilot programmes inform national AI strategies?
- Will governments allocate budgets or pass policies based on ACET’s findings?
- Can the Community of Practice grow to include private sector voices, academia, and civil society across multiple nations?
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