×

RECEIVE NEWS AND UPDATES

English العربية
☰

Mena AI Observatory

OUR STORY

The Access to Knowledge for Development Center (A2K4D) and the Center for Continuing Education (CCE) have a longstanding partnership in regional research, capacity building, and network development in the field of data and new technologies for inclusive development in the MENA region. 

Representing the data for development network in MENA, A2K4D and CCE work closely with regional partners to drive initiatives that capitalize on responsible data and AI for inclusion and achievement of the sustainable development goals. 

Early on, A2K4D worked closely with regional  partners in the region to drive initiatives in transport, solar energy, gender, air quality, health, urban planning, and education.  A2K4D has also researched the state of open data in the region, highlighting regional nuances, challenges and opportunities. Through empirical research, A2K4D has identified significant variations in AI readiness across MENA countries, underscoring the urgent need to explore responsible AI policies and solutions tailored to local needs.

In support of this mandate, the MENA Data platform was launched by A2K4D, with the support of the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and its Open Data for Development global partnership (OD4D). A2K4D has shared its research findings on AI and data for development on the platform since its inception. The Center for Continuing Education (CCE), an OD4D MENA node since 2018, has also conducted significant research on the data revolution, capacity building in data science and data journalism, and the creation of a regional community of practice to drive collaborative data projects, knowledge sharing, and resource mobilization. Notably, CCE has adopted an innovative applied learning journey approach to building a critical mass of data professionals capable of understanding, working with, and influencing data and AI policies in the region.

In recognition of the need for better and more inclusive technology, and data governance, and access, A2K4D and CCE have recently partnered on the project titled "Governing Responsible Artificial Intelligence and Data in the Middle East and North Africa". The project focuses on research, capacity-building, interdisciplinary collaboration, and policy advocacy. The purpose is to deepen understanding, strengthen capacity, and facilitate policy and regulatory support for responsible AI and data in the MENA region with focus areas including, but not limited to, health, food security and human rights.

The MENA AI Observatory was born out of this project. Launched in 2023 with the support of IDRC, the Observatory aims to provide a platform for collaborative research and knowledge dissemination on responsible AI and data governance in the region. The Observatory aims to enhance the visibility and impact of MENA research and experiences in global policy-making spaces. Overall, the A2K4D and CCE partnership continues to push for inclusive development through innovative research, capacity building, and stakeholder collaboration in responsible data and Artificial Intelligence for development.

+ READ MORE

WHY A MENA AI OBSERVATORY?

With the growing global interest in responsible Artificial Intelligence, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) AI Observatory aims to contribute  to the ongoing discourse by showcasing the MENA region's perspective on responsible AI, its implications, and its potential for inclusive human development. The MENA AI Observatory serves as a virtual hub for capturing and disseminating knowledge and research produced by MENA researchers, creating an interactive research database in both English and Arabic. This platform provides a unique opportunity to build a network and foster linkages among various stakeholders within the data and AI ecosystem, including  researchers, law experts, legal advocates, policy-makers, civil society, and the general public in MENA.

The MENA AI Observatory brings together and supports MENA AI communities and networks and encourages them to engage in collaborative communication, research, and knowledge co-production and sharing. This collaborative approach enables the Observatory to serve as a crucial vehicle for advancing inclusive development in MENA and promoting responsible AI and data governance. As such, the Observatory represents a significant step forward in the advancement of responsible AI in MENA, demonstrating the region's commitment to building a vibrant, dynamic, and inclusive technology ecosystem that is responsive to the needs of its diverse populations.

+ READ MORE

VISION

We aspire to become a locally-driven observatory that serves as a knowledge resource, networking hub, and catalyst for change. We work towards developing a dynamic and inclusive platform that champions MENA voices, values, and  standards in responsible data and AI governance. We firmly believe in the importance of supporting MENA AI research and communities by creating a collaborative space that fosters engagement among individuals, policy-makers, and researchers. We are committed to promoting a grounds-up approach that emphasizes local experiences, community engagement, and inclusion in all aspects of data collection and AI systems development.

+ READ MORE

OBJECTIVES

Conduct baseline research on the state of responsible AI and data in the MENA region, while keeping track of emerging trends, identifying research and policy gaps, and disseminating a body of knowledge.

Provide a voice for the region in global scholarship and debates on responsible AI governance issues by creating content originating from the MENA region.

Create a diverse regional network for different actors within the data and AI ecosystem in the MENA region to share knowledge and ideas, collaborate on related projects, and advocate for responsible AI policies.

Increase social awareness of responsible AI and data in the MENA region by providing accessible resources.

Utilize responsible AI standards to impact policy-making in the MENA region.

PARTNERS