Collective Data Protection: Recommendations for Effective Digital Rights in the Age of AI
The growing focus on data governance across Africa marks a positive step toward safeguarding the digital rights1 of African citizens (Citizens). However, legislations fail to address novel challenges artificial intelligence (AI) poses to protecting personal data. African states should promote collective association and negotiation mechanisms between Citizens with similar interests and online service providers, nationally and regionally. This approach can empower Citizens to play an active role in determining how personal data about them is collected, used, shared, and managed (processed). This policy brief outlines practical strategies to help Citizens gain meaningful control over the processing of personal data and the conditions under which it occurs.