This report explores the potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on democracy in Africa, pointing to both challenges and opportunities. While there are good reasons to conclude that external forces are driving the deployment of AI in Africa, which can be – but need not be – indifferent to local desires, meaningful African self-determination requires skilfully navigating these globe-spanning dynamics. The impact of AI largely depends on its interaction with existing power structures, social and economic contexts, and policy frameworks, only minimally under the control and influence of African governments, as well as regional and continental bodies.