Juanita Clark
Profile Summary
Juanita Clark is a driving force behind Africa’s digital transformation. As Co-Founder and CEO of the Digital Council Africa, she has spent nearly two decades shaping the continent’s telecommunications landscape, uniting governments, industry leaders, and key stakeholders to create a more connected and inclusive society.
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She doesn’t just advocate for change—she makes it happen. Clark pushes for policies and infrastructure that fuel economic growth, innovation, and digital inclusion. Her deep expertise in regulation and collaboration makes her a trusted voice in guiding governments toward a future-ready digital economy.
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Juanita will speak on "Connectivity: The Precursor to Artificial Intelligence," highlighting how robust digital infrastructure lays the foundation for AI-driven innovation. With Africa’s AI potential hinging on reliable connectivity, she will explore the policies and investments needed to bridge the digital divide and unlock new opportunities. Her insights will offer a roadmap for ensuring Africa isn’t just a consumer of AI but an active participant in shaping its future.
Session Description
Connectivity - The Precursor to Impactful and Inclusive Artificial Intelligence
This presentation will offer foundational insight into Africa and its readiness for AI adoption by looking at the latest research by the Digital Council Africa. The findings will be unpacked to outline the current status of connectivity in the region as well as consider projects currently making inroads along with planned investments throughout Sub-Saharan Africa. Responsible Artificial Intelligence is about navigating the balance between the commercial, economic, and societal opportunities presented by AI and its ethical, legal and social implications. Key to this, at a foundational level, is connectivity. Without the needed connectivity, the opportunities mentioned cannot be leveraged effectively and without broad access to the needed connectivity, the AI revolution cannot be inclusive. Connectivity is not only central to implementing AI solutions that observe ethical standards and apply responsible AI practices (harm minimisation), its accessibility is a foundational piece for any AI4Good efforts.
