Understanding AI

A foundational AI literacy framework for civic actors engaging in governance, advocacy, innovation, and public policy.

Overview

This publication provides a multidimensional introduction to artificial intelligence, covering its technical foundations, historical development, ethical debates, policy implications, and cultural impact. It situates AI within African and Global South realities, ensuring contextual relevance for institutions operating beyond dominant Global North narratives.

Designed to strengthen informed participation in national, regional, and global AI governance conversations, the guide equips civil society organizations with the conceptual clarity needed to engage confidently in policy and regulatory processes.

Why It Matters

• Integrates technical, historical, ethical, cultural, and policy dimensions of AI
• Grounds AI discourse within African and Global South contexts
• Supports meaningful participation in AI governance processes
• Builds institutional AI literacy beyond surface-level awareness