The Ethics and Governance of Artificial Intelligence in Togolese Societies: An Ethnographic Survey Study

The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) in Togo and other African societies has raised ethical concerns about data governance and use. An ethnographic survey was conducted among 150 Togolese individuals in urban and rural settings to understand their attitudes towards AI ethics and governance. Findings suggest that while respondents generally support the use of AI for development, they are wary of potential data misuse and lack trust in governmental oversight mechanisms. The survey reveals a nuanced understanding of AI benefits and risks among Togolese society, highlighting areas where governance frameworks need improvement. Recommendations include enhancing public awareness campaigns on AI ethics and strengthening government regulations to ensure equitable data use.