An integrated approach to gender equality, diversity, and inclusion in the development of artificial intelligence tools in agriculture and food system in Africa

Abstract

Abstract Agriculture in sub-Saharan Africa faces complex challenges, such as low productivity, climate stress, and ongoing social inequalities, particularly affecting women and marginalised groups. Whilst artificial intelligence (AI) holds transformative potential for agriculture and food systems, its development often overlooks these stakeholders, thereby reinforcing existing disparities. This study investigates two AI research initiatives in Nigeria and Uganda that employed a design-by-inclusion approach rooted in gender equality, diversity, and inclusion (GEDI) principles. Through retrospective case studies involving small groups of women and persons with disabilities, we examine how participatory engagement influenced the relevance, usability, and confidence of AI tools amongst users. Drawing on insights from Feminist Human–Computer Interaction (HCI) and Design Justice, our analysis demonstrates that inclusive processes led to significant improvements in participants’ confidence and willingness to engage with AI tools. Based on these findings, we propose a practical framework for developing inclusive AI in agriculture. This work underscores the importance of context-sensitive, participatory design in fostering equitable and effective AI innovations within African agriculture.