New AI Security Lab Opens in Cape Town to Mitigate Risks
A new AI security and protection laboratory is set to open in Cape Town, South Africa, under the AI for Africa initiative. The African Hub for AI Safety, Security, and Peace, the 12th global AI lab and the second in South Africa, will focus on understanding and mitigating AI-related risks. This project is part of the AI for Africa Initiative, which aims to promote responsible and inclusive AI use across the continent.
The AI Evidence Alliance for Social Impact (AEASI) has been launched to advance evidence-informed AI deployment for social good in Africa and Asia. Backed by a £2.75m investment, AEASI aims to accelerate development outcomes and strengthen democratic resilience. The UK Government has supported this initiative as part of the G20's 'AI for Africa Initiative'.
The new laboratory in Cape Town will ensure African perspectives are considered in global AI governance. It will focus on understanding and mitigating safety and security risks associated with AI. This aligns with the AI for Africa Initiative's goal of promoting the safe and equitable use of AI technologies.
The establishment of the African Hub for AI Safety, Security, and Peace at the University of Cape Town marks a significant step in Africa's AI development. With the support of the AI for Africa Initiative and the UK Government, this hub will contribute to the responsible and inclusive use of AI across the continent, ensuring AI technologies benefit all Africans.
