At the inaugural edition of the Global AI Summit on Africa, Togolese President Faure Gnassingbé issued a strong call for Africa’s digital sovereignty—one of the key strategic challenges of the 21st century. Speaking before an audience of global experts and decision-makers, the Head of State emphasized that the continent can no longer afford to remain in a position of technological dependence that jeopardizes its future.
“Africa must no longer depend on foreign platforms”, he asserted, laying the foundation for a digital sovereignty built on three essential pillars: data control, infrastructure ownership, and the development of appropriate regulatory standards. For President Gnassingbé, this approach is vital to securing the continent’s strategic autonomy, protecting its citizens, and promoting local digital identities and solutions.
Aware of the technical and financial challenges, President Faure Gnassingbé also advocated for a pragmatic approach. The goal is not necessarily to build artificial intelligence models from scratch, but rather to adapt existing solutions—particularly open-source and energy-efficient models—so they truly meet the needs of African societies. This realistic strategy would allow Africa to save time, resources, and increase its efficiency, all while asserting its autonomy.
His address comes at a time when Africa, though undergoing a digital transformation, remains heavily dominated by foreign tech giants. Entrusting the management of data, public services, and communications to external actors poses a direct threat to the sovereignty of African states—especially amid current geopolitical tensions. The Togolese Head of State is thus calling for a continental awakening.
