Former Vice President and NPP 2028 flagbearer, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has called for stronger cross-border cooperation among African countries to unlock the full potential of artificial intelligence and digital innovation.
He argued that collaboration, rather than isolated national efforts, will determine Africa’s success in the global AI economy.
Speaking at the LSE Africa Summit 2026, Dr Bawumia emphasised that AI should not be treated as a set of imported tools but as a shared continental capability.
He noted that Africa must position itself as a co-creator in the global knowledge economy.
“Artificial intelligence can unite borders if Africa builds capability and then connects that capability across borders,” he said.
“If we treat AI as a national and continental capability stack, we can become co-authors of the rules, the markets, and the benefits.”
He highlighted the importance of shared digital infrastructure, regional cloud systems, and harmonised regulations to facilitate cross-border data flows and digital trade.
According to him, such collaboration would reduce dependence on external systems and strengthen Africa’s digital sovereignty.
Dr Bawumia further pointed to continental frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area as critical tools for enabling interoperability and inclusive growth in the digital space.
He concluded that “uniting borders” is not merely a slogan but a practical strategy.
“Build foundations, govern trust, and then connect markets so African talent and AI solutions can scale across the continent,” he stated.
