Harnessing AI, DATA, and Indigenous Innovations To Improve Elections, Peace, and Security In Africa; Advancing Inclusive Governance Through The Empowerment Of Women and Youth.
Authored By: Dr Toyin Lawal
Introduction
This research examines the transformative possibilities of Artificial Intelligence (AI), data-informed decision-making, and local innovations in enhancing elections, peace, and security across Africa, with an emphasis on inclusive governance through women and youth empowerment.
Objective
The interest of this study is to explore the instruments and methods that can be used for conflict prevention and the construction of democratic legitimacy while empowering women and youth as core agents of change.
Context
Even though tech-led reforms of governance and elections are slowly being practiced in the region, these reforms often replicate structural exclusions, algorithmic biases, and digital barriers. At the same time, indigenous knowledge systems, which are based on dialogue, mediation, and community validation, remain underutilized for constructing reforms in governance. While existing scholarship captures both the promises and risks of the digital transformation of governance, there is a gap in theorizing how indigenous knowledge systems and new technologies can collectively be employed to rethink participatory and inclusive governance for African spaces.
Methodology
Drawing on a mixed-methods strategy that synthesizes qualitative and quantitative data, the study considers how AI and indigenous innovations can collectively be utilized for reinforcing electoral integrity, facilitating peacebuilding, and supporting participatory governance.
Findings
The findings are likely to show that there is promise for data analytics and AI in scaling early warning systems, enhancing transparency, and fostering inclusivity in the electoral process. By placing women’s and youth agency at the center, the findings will suggest new directions for reconceptualizing inclusive governance, moving from mere participation towards the inclusive co-creation of political and technical systems.
Goal
The goal of the study is to contribute to peacebuilding by developing a conceptual and empirical argument for integrating AI, data, and local practices to enhance African democratic resilience and foster long-lasting peace.
Conclusion
The research concludes by outlining policy, practice, and research trajectories that align with the UN’s mission for inclusive, rights-based, and locally oriented peacebuilding.