Burkina Faso Pursues Digital Equality, Initiates AI Localization Venture in Collaboration with UNDP
In a significant move towards digital transformation, the Ministry of Digital Transition, Postal and Electronic Communications (MTDPCE) of Burkina Faso and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have joined forces in a global initiative. The aim is to promote the responsible and inclusive use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in developing countries, with a particular focus on Burkina Faso.
The initiative, which was the subject of a meeting held on July 4, 2025, in Burkina Faso, emphasizes several key objectives. Firstly, it aims to integrate local languages into AI systems, bridging the digital divide and enhancing cultural inclusivity. Secondly, it prioritizes responsible and fair AI use, ensuring transparency, equity, and the prevention of social inequalities.
The project also seeks to bolster national technical capabilities, a crucial aspect for developing countries to fully leverage AI for socio-economic development while adhering to ethical standards. Additionally, the initiative is designed to ensure that the use of AI is guided by robust regulatory and ethical frameworks, preventing potential misuse and ensuring equitable distribution of benefits.
During the meeting, Dr. Aminata ZERBO/SABANE, Minister of Digital Transition, Postal and Electronic Communications, expressed appreciation for the UNDP's proposal, recognizing its potential to strengthen existing national actions in Burkina Faso. Eloi KOUADIO IV, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Burkina Faso, was also present at the meeting.
To facilitate collaboration and ensure the initiative aligns with national priorities, a technical team will be established in Burkina Faso to work closely with the UNDP, as instructed by Minister ZERBO/SABANE. The ongoing digital strategy of Burkina Faso was also discussed during the exchange.
The UNDP project discussed at the meeting aims to integrate local languages into AI systems, making artificial intelligence accessible to the majority of the population in Burkina Faso. The initiative continues to prioritize building the capacities of technicians to promote responsible artificial intelligence.
Minister ZERBO/SABANE and Mr. KOUADIO IV, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative, were present during the exchange in Burkina Faso. The meeting was held to discuss this innovative global initiative promoting responsible AI use in developing countries, with Burkina Faso serving as a key test case.
This partnership is part of a broader effort to harness the potential of AI for sustainable development in developing countries, while ensuring that its benefits are shared fairly and that its risks are managed effectively. The initiative in Burkina Faso continues to be a significant step towards achieving this goal.
The initiative in Burkina Faso, a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Digital Transition, Postal and Electronic Communications (MTDPCE) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), prioritizes the integration of local languages into AI systems, as well as the promotion of responsible and fair use of artificial intelligence. The project aims to strengthen national technical capabilities in order to fully leverage AI for socio-economic development while adhering to ethical standards.
