Ethics of AI and Data Governance in Central African Republic: An Ethnographic Exploration

Central African Republic (CAR) is a nation in Central Africa facing significant socio-economic challenges. The country's recent history of conflict and instability has highlighted issues around technology adoption, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data governance. The research employed participant observation, interviews with community leaders, and focus group discussions among various stakeholders including government officials, civil society organizations, and local residents. Data collection was conducted over a period of six months in different regions of CAR. A key finding is the strong resistance to AI applications from some communities due to concerns about loss of traditional knowledge and privacy violations, with approximately 60% of respondents expressing these sentiments. The study underscores the importance of culturally sensitive data governance strategies that integrate local values and beliefs into policy frameworks. This approach can foster greater acceptance and utilization of AI technologies in CAR. Policy makers should prioritise community engagement during the development and implementation of AI initiatives, ensuring that cultural contexts are considered to mitigate potential backlash against new technologies.