Bridging the global technology gap is essential to prepare all countries for the age of artificial intelligence and ensure equitable development. Significant investment in digital infrastructure, electricity access, cloud computing, and skills training is critical, particularly for emerging and developing economies. To guide such investments, the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) has created the Artificial Intelligence Investment Potential Index (AIIPI), which evaluates countries’ AI readiness based on indicators like digital infrastructure, economic attractiveness, governance, human capital, and national AI strategies. The AIIPI categorizes countries into four groups, helping policymakers and investors tailor strategies to specific needs, from innovation and regulation in advanced economies to foundational infrastructure and skills in developing nations.
AI holds promise for achieving Sustainable Development Goals, including in education and energy management, but its benefits are unevenly distributed. Ethical use of data is crucial to prevent exacerbating inequalities and ensure transparency, trust, and human rights protection. Tools like the “social licence” allow communities to participate in data collection and use, empowering them to address local challenges, such as climate warning systems in Senegal. By combining targeted investment, robust infrastructure, skills development, and ethical data practices, AI can drive inclusive, sustainable growth while helping countries accelerate progress toward the SDGs.
