At the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai, renowned African mathematician Abdon Atangana delivered a stirring call for equitable global AI development, challenging existing power structures while highlighting China-Africa collaboration as a model for progress.
The Language of Innovation
Atangana, celebrated for revolutionizing fractional calculus, framed mathematics as AI's essential foundation: "To have good AI, we need predictive mathematics." He described a symbiotic relationship where mathematical breakthroughs enable AI advancements, while AI tools accelerate new discoveries – a cycle he believes must include diverse global perspectives.
Beyond Binary Competition
While acknowledging China's AI leadership, Atangana advocated for multipolar development: "It's good if we can have three, four or five countries competing." He urged redirecting AI's potential toward Africa's urgent needs – food security, energy access, and healthcare – rather than purely commercial applications.
Redefining Collaboration
The scholar contrasted experiences working with Chinese and Western institutions, praising China's "healthy" partnership approach that respects African agency. "When I'm invited to China, I feel respected," he noted, while describing U.S. engagements as infantilizing. Atangana positioned China as amplifying "the voice of the Global South" through technology cooperation.
An Eagle's Ascent
Closing with his viral metaphor, Atangana declared: "There is a time for people to bully us; to make us think we are chickens. That time is near where we will recognize that we are eagles." His vision centers on self-reliant African development powered by homegrown expertise rather than external aid.
Reference(s):
WAIC: Leading African mathematician on AI and the continent's rise
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