Speaking during a panel on "Opportunities and Implications of Artificial Intelligence: Social, Economic, Cultural, Ethical, Linguistic and Technical Dimensions" on July 6, 2026, in Geneva, Switzerland, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Digital Transition and Technological Innovation, Djibril Ouattara, called for stronger regional cooperation and the pooling of projects, investments, and expertise to develop shared AI infrastructure across West Africa.
The panel was held alongside the inaugural Global Dialogue on AI Governance, taking place on July 6–7, where the minister represented Alassane Ouattara.
Addressing participants, Djibril Ouattara urged West African countries and their partners to unite in building shared digital infrastructure, developing practical AI applications, establishing supranational regulatory frameworks, and creating a Regional African School of Artificial Intelligence.
"Given Côte d’Ivoire’s strong commitment to international institutions such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), which is hosting us today, we solemnly call on the countries of West Africa and beyond to join forces in building shared infrastructure, deploying relevant AI use cases, regulating AI through a supranational framework, and establishing a Regional African School of AI," the minister said.
Recognizing that artificial intelligence requires substantial investment and cross-border coordination, particularly among countries sharing common cultural, linguistic, and social characteristics, Djibril Ouattara stressed that existing regional institutions already provide a solid foundation for a common AI ecosystem.
He highlighted the role of regional organizations such as OHADA in business law, CAMES in higher education, and UEMOA in economic and monetary integration, describing them as strategic platforms for developing AI solutions tailored to African realities.
According to the minister, these institutions can serve as powerful drivers for AI innovation that reflects local priorities and supports sustainable development across the region.
Beyond infrastructure and governance, Djibril Ouattara emphasized the importance of large-scale, inclusive AI education and the harmonization of legal frameworks to ensure responsible AI deployment.
"By building on our shared values, we can maximize our social, economic, cultural, ethical, and linguistic assets so that artificial intelligence delivers tangible benefits to our populations in healthcare, education, and food security," he stated.
During the official ceremony of the Global Dialogue on AI Governance, the minister is also expected to deliver, on behalf of President Alassane Ouattara, Côte d’Ivoire’s national statement on the theme, "Harnessing the Benefits of Artificial Intelligence for All Through Inclusive and Interoperable Approaches," joining leaders from several other countries in shaping the global conversation on AI governance.