Some African states turn to AI surveillance

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        Hard number: Some African states turn to AI surveillance
    
        Zac Weisz
    
By GZERO DailyMay 13, 2026
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While China has long been a leader in infrastructure investment across the African continent, it’s found a new way to continue to expand its influence – AI-powered surveillance technology. According to a recent study, many of these new systems have even been funded by Chinese banks. Nigeria boasts the continent's largest network of smart CCTV cameras, spending $470 million to install around 10,000 cameras. Some experts are worried about the lack of accountability when deploying these systems, especially under authoritarian governments. 

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Hard number: Some African states turn to AI surveillance

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