Algorithmic Colonization of Africa

Abstract

Abstract This chapter examines how Western tech monopolies, with their desire to dominate, control, and influence social, political, and cultural discourse share common characteristics with traditional colonialism. Traditional colonialism has been driven by political and government forces; algorithmic colonialism, on the other hand, is driven by corporate profits. While the former used brute force domination, colonialism in the age of AI takes the form of ‘state-of-the-art algorithms’ and ‘AI solutions’ to social problems. Not only is Western-developed AI unfit for African problems, but also the West’s algorithmic invasion simultaneously impoverishes development of local products while leaving the continent dependent on Western software and infrastructure. By drawing examples from various parts of the continent, this chapter illustrates how the AI invasion of Africa echoes colonial era exploitation. This chapter then concludes by outlining a vision of AI rooted in local community needs and interests,