AI Governance and Senegal

 AI Governance and Senegal:

The governance of AI and digital transformation in Senegal involves a collaborative effort across several ministries, specialized agencies, and advisory bodies. While there is no single entity solely dedicated to AI, the following organizations and structures oversee the regulatory environment and strategic implementation:

​Key Governmental and Supervisory Bodies

  • ​Ministry of Communication, Telecommunications, and Digital Economy (MCTEN): This is the primary ministry responsible for defining and coordinating the national digital strategy and the implementation of AI-related policies. It oversees the overall "New Deal Technologique".

  • ​Commission de Protection des Données Personnelles (CDP): As Senegal’s data protection authority, the CDP is a pivotal regulatory actor for AI. It enforces privacy laws and has taken an active stance in regulating emerging technologies, such as rejecting biometric or facial recognition applications that pose privacy risks.

  • ​Sénégal Numérique S.A. (formerly ADIE): This state agency serves as the operational arm for digital transformation. It is responsible for developing digital public infrastructure and supporting the government’s modernization efforts.

  • ​Autorité de Régulation des Télécommunications et des Postes (ARTP): The ARTP manages the telecommunications sector and ensures competition and regulatory compliance in digital infrastructure, which is foundational for AI adoption.

  • ​National Digital Council: This council was established to oversee governance, provide innovation incentives, and foster private sector engagement in the national digital agenda.

​Coordination and Advisory Mechanisms

  • ​National WSIS Committee: Institutionalized in 2019, this committee coordinates cross-sector efforts by bringing together government officials, the private sector, academia, and civil society to ensure long-term alignment with international digital goals.

  • ​AI Hub Senegal: While acting as an initiative rather than a formal government regulator, it serves as a central point for connecting talent, startups, and institutions to promote responsible, ethical, and sovereign AI development within the country.

  • ​Smart Africa & Regional Councils: Senegal participates in continental frameworks, such as the African Council for Artificial Intelligence (under the Smart Africa alliance), which aims to coordinate efforts across Africa on AI governance, data management, and infrastructure.

​These entities work within the framework of Senegal's broader digital legislation, including data protection acts and cybersecurity laws, which are being progressively applied to mitigate the risks associated with AI technologies.


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