The International Council for Artificial Intelligence (CONIIA) is a global organization dedicated to the ethical and responsible development of artificial intelligence. Founded on the principle that AI should benefit all communities across the world, CONIIA brings together experts, researchers, and practitioners to foster innovation that creates positive societal impact.
Our vision
We envision a world where artificial intelligence is developed and deployed ethically, inclusively, and beneficially for all communities, particularly those historically underrepresented in technological advancements. CONIIA is committed to ensuring that the benefits of AI are shared equitably across the globe while respecting local cultures, ecosystems, and communities.
Our mission
CONIIA’s mission centers on five core pillars:
- Promoting responsible AI adoption worldwide
- Building bridges between Africa and other continents in the AI domain
- Facilitating knowledge and skill transfer across regions
- Advocating for robust ethical principles in AI development
- Encouraging inclusion and diversity throughout the AI ecosystem
Why we exist
CONIIA emerged from an urgent recognition: the need to make AI technologies accessible to all populations while ensuring their development adheres to fundamental ethical values. We believe AI can be a powerful driver of development, particularly for emerging regions like Africa, but only if guided by principles of responsibility, fairness, and inclusion.
By creating platforms for collaboration and exchange, CONIIA enables ideas to flourish and partnerships to form. Our international presence—with offices across Africa (Togo, Côte d’Ivoire), Europe (France), the Americas (USA), and Asia (China & Hong Kong)—allows us to operate as a truly global organization while maintaining strong local connections.
Our commitment to Africa
CONIIA plays a crucial role in connecting Africa to the rest of the world in the AI domain. By choosing Lomé as the host city for our flagship Artificial Intelligence Week (SIA), we emphasize Africa’s importance in the global technological landscape and its potential as a leader in AI innovation.
Our activities in Africa, including the AI Days (JIA) in Côte d’Ivoire and the celebration of African AI Day (JI2A), reflect our commitment to fostering an ecosystem where African talent can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the global AI conversation.
Our values
CONIIA is guided by four fundamental values:
- Ethics: Ensuring AI development respects human dignity and rights
- Inclusivity: Making AI accessible and beneficial to all communities
- Responsibility: Promoting transparency and accountability in AI systems
- Sustainability: Advocating for AI solutions that support environmental and social well-being
Through education, advocacy, research, and international cooperation, CONIIA works tirelessly to build a future where artificial intelligence serves humanity’s highest aspirations and addresses our most pressing challenges.
