Artificial Intelligence: a new global system, a genocidal project or the revival of the tokoloshe culture?

Abstract

In the context of inclusive innovation, artificial intelligence (AI) presents opportunities to address inequality and social exclusion by integrating fairness, inclusion, and representation. Despite AI’s benefits, its global transformative impact, disruption of traditional labour patterns, and integration into daily life, it remains essential to consider the potential downsides, including deepening inequalities and enhancing the digital divide. This article explores the multifaceted nature of AI, examining whether it implies developing a new global system, risks becoming a “genocidal project”, or challenging traditional African ways of being. We illustrate this by comparing AI usage and African Epistemologies to understand how both have a dual nature in their adaptability and versatility in shaping our everyday lives. Using the African Epistemological lenses of Ubuntu and African folklore of the tokoloshe, we incorporate evidence from academic sources and policy; we argue that AI’s replacement of human labour is a form of economic genocide, mainly impacting less advantaged people by intensifying inequalities and unemployment. This paper aims to contribute to the growing study of inclusive innovation by incorporating AI and African experiences, emphasizing the philosophy of Ubuntu and bringing to the fore humanness in the development for policy development that emphasize the challenges and influence of AI’s potential for inclusive innovation. These recommendations promote equitable access to technology and prioritize ethical considerations to avoid harm and marginalization.