The second edition of the Cameroon Artificial Intelligence Day was launched today, April 22, 2025, under the theme « AI and Economic Development: Innovate to Transform. » The conference took place at the Hilton Hotel and brought together various participants.
M. MOHAMADOU SAOUDI, Secretary General of the Ministry of Post and Telecommunication, was present at the event, on behalf of minister Minette LIBOM LI LIKENG. As for the ministers speech, she did it through video conference. During the even, several actors participated in presenting a talk on how to develop artificial intelligence for better innovations.
Prof. Ebenezer Njoh Mouelle, a renowned academician, was one of them. He delivered the inaugural speech, focusing on the state’s role in implementing AI in Africa. He highlighted that AI is a man-made product that requires human programming and correction. He therefore urged people to stop viewing AI as a tool that will one day surpass human intelligence. Instead, AI should be seen as a tool that needs human oversight. For that reason, there is no need to fear its evolution.
He then presented the African States’ role, discussing how 14 out of 54 African countries have defined AI development strategies, while 8, among which Cameroon is, are preparing theirs. He proposed creating a center for local development strategy, investing in infrastructure, and promoting its governance.
For the role of Cameroon, Prof. Mouelle emphasized the need to implement AI in various sectors, such as health, law, education, and tax payment, just to name a few. This can be achieved by establishing a data centralization structure to bring together different skills.
The conference aimed to explore the potential of AI in driving economic development in Cameroon and Africa. By understanding the role of states and humans in AI implementation, participants can work towards harnessing the benefits of this technology. The conferences continue tomorrow at ENSP- Politech of Yaoundé.
Monique Omam
