Whose responsibility? Deconstructing global responsible AI from the African lens: a review

Abstract This paper uses the theory of decoloniality to critically examine how African scholars have interrogated the dominant, global narratives surrounding responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI). Through a multivocal literature review, the paper reveals a range of critical perspectives that expose systemic exclusions and imbalances in the current responsible AI discourse. Key themes identified include the marginalisation of African epistemologies, values, and principles; the absence of representative African datasets, lack of locally grounded regulatory frameworks; the limited inclusion and or availability of African expertise and funding; and the persistent power asymmetries and coloniality embedded in global responsible AI ethics and governance. The review highlights emerging efforts towards reconstructing responsible AI from an African contextual lens. Central to this constructive turn is the proposal of a decoloniality framework that puts emphasis on African knowledge systems, reclaims agency in AI development, and reimagines responsible AI in ways that are contextually grounded, pluriversal, and socially acceptable. This review not only contributes to critical AI scholarship but also charts pathways for more inclusive and equitable AI futures on the continent.