Official launch of the first Artificial Intelligence Week

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Extract from the article: From 04 to 08 June 2024, Lomé will be hosting Artificial Intelligence Week (AIS). The theme of this major event is ‘AI in Togo and Africa: state of play, opportunities and societal challenges’. It aims to bring together experts, researchers and enthu

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From 04 to 08 June 2024, Lomé will be hosting Artificial Intelligence Week (AIS). The theme of this major event is ‘AI in Togo and Africa: state of play, opportunities and societal challenges’. It aims to bring together experts, researchers and enthusiasts to explore the advances, opportunities and challenges associated with AI, with a view to boosting the socio-economic development of Togo and Africa. The event was launched on Tuesday 04 June by Yawa Kouigan, Minister of Communication and Media.

From 04 to 08 June 2024, Lomé will become the nerve centre of technological innovation. It is hosting Artificial Intelligence Week (AIS). This ambitious initiative aims to put Togo on the global innovation map by bringing together key players in AI for five days of conferences, workshops and meetings. The aim of the event is to raise awareness and educate the general public about the growing importance and impact of AI in today's world, to facilitate understanding of this technology through practical approaches, and to encourage exchanges between professionals, academics and technology enthusiasts.

In his keynote speech, Jérôme Ribeiro, co-founder and CEO of Human AI, stressed the importance of developing and using artificial intelligence responsibly. « We are using artificial intelligence to serve humanity.We must ensure that artificial intelligence is developed and used responsibly, reducing inequalities and offering opportunities for all », he said.He also emphasised the crucial role of education in this technological revolution, saying that « education is the key to empowerment. »

Dr Malik Morris, President of the International Council for Artificial Intelligence (CONIIA) also shared his vision for this week dedicated to AI: « I am convinced that this week entirely dedicated to artificial intelligence will be a source of inspiration and motivation for all of us. Together, we can shape a future where artificial intelligence serves the common good, a future where every African can benefit from technological advances.AI must be guided by sound ethical principles ».

The SIA will be an opportunity for participants to discover the latest advances in the field of AI, to explore its concrete applications in various sectors such as health, education, agriculture and industry, and to discuss the ethical, social and economic challenges associated with this emerging technology. 

Officially launching the proceedings, Yawa Kouigan invited participants to take full advantage of the knowledge shared during this AI week. « I urge you to be diligent and open-minded, especially for our young technology enthusiasts.Make the most of all the knowledge that will be shared during the conferences, exhibitions, demonstrations and practical workshops to establish lasting connections and collaborations for the development and responsible use of AI in Togo and Africa », she said.

AI and the healthcare sector

AI for healthcare can be an essential tool for analysing vast volumes of raw and unique patient medical information to create more accurate diagnoses and treatment protocols.It can rapidly analyse data from a variety of sources, identify potential problems and recommend solutions in many contexts, including clinical and administrative environments.

In terms of clinical outcomes, AI analysis enables faster and more thorough examination of information without the risk of human error (for example, for the detection of tumours or early signs of disease). In turn, doctors and surgeons can use these results to develop better treatment options that optimise patient outcomes. AI's processing power is not limited to individual cases.It can take information from all over the world and uncover actionable insights that can lead to life-saving care and medical innovations.

In addition to conferences and workshops, Artificial Intelligence Week will also feature demonstrations of innovative projects, networking sessions and training opportunities for students and professionals interested in this fast-growing field. By fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors, universities, start-ups and civil society, Artificial Intelligence Week in Lomé aims to catalyse Togo's digital transformation and position the country as a regional hub for technological innovation in West Africa.

Elom AKAKPO