Africa has an opportunity to develop governance frameworks that address its own needs and serve as a model for other regions. Global tech giants often exploit Africa’s data resources with little reinvestment, exacerbating inequalities and creating challenges around privacy, misinformation and market monopolies. While there is a global consensus on the need for regulation, many countries have been unable or unwilling to act, leaving many African countries vulnerable to the unchecked practices of these corporations. Africa should establish a unified regulatory system through the African Union, focusing on data privacy, cybersecurity and corporate accountability, ensuring that digital ecosystems benefit local populations and reduce data exploitation. Promoting digital connectivity, strengthening local tech ecosystems and supporting innovation could allow Africa to reduce dependency on foreign tech giants, foster economic development and contribute to enhancing its negotiating power on the global stage.
