As AI is rapidly harnessed across Africa, U.S. tech leaders emphasized that digital systems must be built on security, sovereignty and transparency during a panel discussion at GITEX AFRICA.

Dr. Thierry Wandji, CEO of Cybastion, participated on April 8 in a roundtable, “Artificial Intelligence and Trusted Technologies” at GITEX Africa in Marrakech, Morocco. GITEX AFRICA is the largest tech and startup event in Africa.

The panel convened tech leaders from U.S. companies to examine what artificial intelligence means for Africa today and in the future. Gretchen E. Krantz Evans, Country Manager for Middle East and North Africa at the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), moderated the panel. 

Dr. Wandji underscored that cybersecurity is the foundation of trust in new technologies, particularly as African nations digitize public services and expand access to online platforms.

“At its core, trust starts with security,” he said. “Cybersecurity is no longer seen as a luxury — it’s a necessity.”

African governments are increasingly prioritizing secure digital ecosystems as they roll out e-government services such as digital payments, e-tax systems and national digital ID platforms. Without strong cybersecurity protections, these systems risk undermining public confidence and slow adoption.

Trust is also closely tied to data sovereignty, where countries seek to maintain greater control over their data and digital infrastructure, said Dr. Wandji.

U.S. companies are playing an expanding role by bringing advanced technologies and expertise to Africa. “When you combine American innovation with African leadership and local expertise, you create powerful solutions that are locally relevant and sustainable,” said Wandji.