Transition towards digital modernity in the Global South: The contribution of AI to sustainable development in Sub-Saharan African countries

The aim of this study is to analyze the perceived contribution of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to the achievement of societal oriented Sustainable Development Goals (SDG´s) in Sub-Saharan African countries in the context of postcolonial power-structures and a transformation towards digital modernity. To do so, I conducted a content analysis on AI-policy papers implemented by three carefully selected countries: Liberia, Mauritius and South Africa. Given the consequences of modern colonialism and postcolonial power-structures, these countries struggle with a high level of inequality, poverty and exploitation. However, today´s world is undergoing a transition towards digital modernity that impacts individuals and states at local, national and international level. With the implementation of e-health, e-education, eparticipation and e-learning strategies, and in accordance with an increased provision of digital services, rather low developed countries in Sub-Saharan Africa can accelerate the achievement of societal oriented SDG´s and thereby contribute to overall sustainable development. Nonetheless, specific obstacles and challenges, such as automation risks, ethical constraints and gaps in transparency and safety need to be carefully considered to reduce disadvantages of AI for sustainable development.