Global Africa Philosophy, Technology and Society Lab

About the Lab:

Our research investigates three core themes:

1. AI and Socioeconomic Inequality in Africa

We study how artificial intelligence is transforming labor markets, livelihoods, and social structures across the continent, with particular attention to differences across gender, age, class, and geographic location.

2. Africa in the Global Technology Value Chain

The lab explores Africa’s positioning within global digital technology production networks, including data extraction, digital labor, AI infrastructure, and technological dependency.

3. African Philosophical Frameworks and AI Ethics

Drawing on African philosophical traditions, we investigate how digital technologies can either reinforce existing inequalities or contribute to more socially grounded and inclusive technological futures.

Overall Objective

The lab aims to establish a sustainable international research network that generates empirical and philosophical insights into the socio-economic and socio-cultural impacts of digital technologies in Africa. By grounding technological analysis in African intellectual traditions, the lab seeks to inform inclusive policies, ethical frameworks, and responsible AI development across the continent.

Core Research Questions

Our work explores questions such as:

1. How can Pan-African collaboration shape the development of digital technologies across Africa?

2. What is the future of artificial intelligence in African tertiary institutions and research infrastructures?

3. How are digital technologies enabling or amplifying misinformation and digital manipulation in African information ecosystems?

4. How are close personal relationships with digital technologies emerging in African social contexts?

5. What governance frameworks are necessary to ensure responsible and equitable AI development in Africa?

Participation

Scholars, students, and practitioners interested in participating in lab discussions or collaborating on research projects are encouraged to contact: ccsd@ku.edu