Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionized different sectors and will not be an exception in enabling the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The focus of SDGs is to provide a “blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all by 2030”. The 17 SDGs are interconnected and achieving one of the goals creates a ripple effect in the other goals. These ripple effects can be created when stakeholders use past information (data) from the societal, environmental, and economic factors, observing patterns and proffering actionable solutions. AI is a key driver that can leverage this data to create revolutionary approaches in solving global problems. For example, women have developed AI-based systems to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being. These systems that can detect breast and cervical cancer have been developed by researchers. From an African standpoint, a significant area where the role of AI will have an immense contribution is in constituting institutions. These institutions will uphold peace and justice and promote the rule of law at all national levels by building solid institutions using data. AI can leverage blockchain and distributed ledgers to support voting and boost voters’ integrity. These, among other projects where AI systems have been deployed and can be potentially integrated, will be further discussed in this chapter.