Engineers across Africa are advocating for the responsible use of artificial intelligence as the technology expands into areas affected by insecurity, forced labor, and human trafficking. Experts emphasize that AI can enhance safety, but it is crucial that it does not compromise human rights. Nigerian software engineer Ayotunde Somoye has focused on applying AI to address security threats and human trafficking across the continent, stressing that AI should assist human investigators rather than replace them.

Somoye believes AI can help close the gap in law enforcement by spotting early warning signs, similar to systems that detect financial fraud or cyber threats. He notes that human trafficking and modern slavery remain challenging to combat due to the hidden nature of victims in informal recruitment networks or complex supply chains. Somoye’s research explores how AI can identify unusual patterns in employment or recruitment data, while leaving final judgment to human investigators.

The use of AI in combating human trafficking and insecurity is a growing concern, with many experts cautioning that technology meant to protect could instead be used to monitor, exclude, or silence vulnerable communities. Somoye emphasizes that ethics, privacy, and accountability must be central to the design of AI systems. He also mentors younger engineers across Africa, encouraging them to consider the implications of their work and the importance of responsible AI development.

The push for ethical AI aligns with broader initiatives in Nigeria and globally, including Google’s commitment to expand AI talent and digital safety. The Nigerian government is also advancing the National AI Strategy, with draft legislation proposing mandatory registration and licensing for AI developers, risk-based classification, and requirements for ethical use. These developments highlight the growing importance of responsible AI development and deployment, with experts emphasizing that technology can protect people, but only if it is designed, deployed, and governed responsibly.

As AI continues to expand into areas affected by insecurity and human trafficking, the need for responsible development and deployment is becoming increasingly important. With the Nigerian government and companies like Google taking steps to promote ethical AI, it is likely that the use of AI in combating human trafficking and insecurity will continue to grow, with a focus on protecting human rights and promoting accountability.