Surveillance in Africa: Mapping Chinese AI Surveillance Across 11 Countries (www.ids.ac.uk)

A new comprehensive report has mapped the deployment of Chinese AI surveillance technologies across 11 African countries, highlighting the trend of smart city initiatives that utilize advanced monitoring systems like facial recognition and vehicle number plate recognition. Researchers from various nations have contributed insights into how these technologies are integrated into public spaces, often processed at centralized control centers. The study examines the historical evolution of surveillance practices in Africa, from colonial intelligence frameworks to contemporary digital monitoring, revealing the key players involved, including government agencies, foreign tech companies, and local businesses. This research is significant for the AI/ML community as it underscores the ethical and privacy concerns surrounding the implementation of AI surveillance in public spaces. The report emphasizes the need for critical discourse on data governance and civil liberties, given the increasing influence of foreign technological investments in shaping urban monitoring systems. By documenting the stakeholders and operational frameworks of these smart surveillance projects, the study serves as an essential resource for policymakers, technologists, and civil society advocates aiming to navigate the complexities of AI deployment in an African context.