The Ethical Imperatives in AI and Data Governance within African Societies: A Botswana Perspective

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and data-driven technologies has significant implications for African societies, including Botswana. These developments raise critical ethical concerns related to privacy, equity, and governance. The analysis is informed by a review of existing literature, consultations with local stakeholders, and theoretical frameworks from African studies and information science. The current landscape lacks a comprehensive ethical framework for AI and data governance that aligns with local values and legal norms. Botswana should develop an integrated policy directive to guide the responsible use of AI technologies within its socio-economic context, emphasising transparency, accountability, and stakeholder engagement.