The Challenges and Opportunities for Developing the Use of Data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in North Africa: Case of Morocco

Artificial intelligence (AI) represents a significant potential for the African continent. AI can drive progress, development, and democratization governments properly handle the challenges. It can boost productivity growth by extending opportunities in crucial African development areas such as agriculture, healthcare, financial services, and public services. AI will enable employees, entrepreneurs, and enterprises to compete worldwide and be at the vanguard of economic development by providing access to high-quality digital tools. However, the roadblocks necessitate firm policy answers. AI will need significant changes for workers, employers, businesses and open new ethical questions that need thoughtful responses. Higher constraints specific to Africa, such as network limits, educational institution readiness, and the availability of digital data, exacerbate the ethical issues. Africa must make aggressive attempts to address its problems; however, if it succeeds, it will catch up to countries that have previously taken steps to improve AI. These efforts will be complicated, but the road ahead is clear. The government's effectiveness will be determined by its capacity to facilitate collaboration among all stakeholders, including state and civil society, academics, industry, and national and international stakeholders.