Artificial Intelligence Governance Readiness for Sustainable Development in Africa: A Multidimensional Index Approach Towards Sustainable Development

Abstract: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly transforming how governments design, manage, and deliver public services, with expanding applications across healthcare, taxation, and social protection systems. In African contexts, the rapid growth of digital infrastructure and e-government platforms has created new opportunities for AI-driven governance. However, progress remains uneven and is frequently constrained by institutional weaknesses, limited regulatory capacity, and gaps in data governance frameworks. This paper introduces the Artificial Intelligence Governance Readiness Index (AGRI), a multidimensional framework designed to assess national preparedness for the responsible and effective adoption of AI in public administration. The index integrates key dimensions including digital infrastructure, e-government maturity, data capability, policy frameworks, institutional capacity, and data governance. By linking technological readiness with institutional and regulatory conditions, the AGRI provides a comprehensive tool for evaluating AI governance ecosystems. The paper argues that without coordinated development across these interdependent domains, AI adoption risks reinforcing existing inequalities, undermining accountability, and limiting inclusive development outcomes. Conversely, strengthening governance readiness can support more transparent, efficient, and equitable public sector transformation. The study contributes to emerging debates on AI governance and sustainable development by offering a structured framework for assessing how countries can harness AI to advance inclusive, accountable governance systems. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Administration, Governance, Index, Public Services