A new global initiative aimed at driving ethical and evidence-based use of artificial intelligence (AI) for social impact across Africa and Asia has been launched. The AI Evidence Alliance for Social Impact (AEASI), funded at GBP 2.75 million (US$3.7 million), is designed to support research, explore real-world applications of AI, and amplify local leadership in the development of responsible technologies.
The Alliance is a collaboration between Community Jameel, the Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL), the British Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) of Canada, and IDinsight. The project forms part of a broader US$7.5 million partnership with Google.org, aimed at expanding AI impact assessment and responsible tech innovation in underserved regions.
The initiative was announced during the AI for Africa Conference held in Cape Town, co-hosted by the South African G20 presidency, the African Union, and UNESCO. AEASI will support collaboration among policymakers, civil society, researchers, and tech developers to evaluate the social benefit and risks of AI solutions. The goal is to identify opportunities where AI can drive high-impact outcomes, promote inclusive innovation, and address societal challenges while limiting harm.
Kanishka Narayan, the UK’s Minister for AI and Online Safety, highlighted the broader vision behind this initiative:
“AI has the power to fuel sustainable growth, increase trust in digital innovation, and positively impact lives. This investment reflects our commitment to empowering African-led innovation that focuses on real needs, fairness, and inclusion. By partnering with countries like South Africa, we’re helping shape a future where AI works for everyone.”
AEASI plans to fund rigorous research and facilitate the scaling of impactful AI solutions, contributing to a future where technology is used responsibly to serve public good across developing regions.
