The development of AI

Mass surveillance systems from China monitor Africans

Eleven African countries have invested at least 18 billion kronor in Chinese AI technology that monitors residents with facial recognition and data collection. This is shown by a new report from the organization Institute of development studies (IDS), writes The Guardian.

IDS warns that arguments about increased security are being used lightly to introduce the systems, which are then used as a tool for mass surveillance. In the worst case, the systems can be used to monitor activists, protesters, opposition politicians and journalists.

With its 10,000 smart cameras, Nigeria is leading the way in the investment. Other countries that are pointed out are Egypt, Algeria, Uganda and Kenya.Warning: Risk that people no longer dare to demonstrate.

The warning: Risk that people will no longer dare to demonstrate

The fact that many African countries are introducing smart Chinese surveillance systems risks limiting the desire of residents to demonstrate for change. That's according to Yosr Jouini, who wrote the Algeria chapter in the new report that warns that eleven African countries are investing in the technology.

She tells The Guardian that popular protests in the streets led to political change in both 2019 and 2021.

- Many protesters have been arrested while participating in gatherings in public places. We don't know for sure if it was because of the cameras, but it has a chilling effect – because it could happen – on people's willingness to participate in public gatherings.