Abstract
PURPOSE: This article seeks to assess the potential of AI technologies in enhancing data-driven policy-making, especially in addressing socioeconomic , technological, and environmental challenges in African countries. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The research used a qualitative approach and a comprehensive literature review to understand artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential applications in public policy-making. FINDINGS: AI can enhance public policy-making processes in multiple ways, but it has not evolved to the point of replacing human intelligence. RESEARCH LIMITATIONS/IMPLICATIONS: Multidisciplinary empirical research including social scientists, such as policy management experts and AI technology developers, may assist in improving the AI technology weaknesses identified in this paper. ORIGINALITY/VALUE OF THE PAPER: The article demonstrates that the future of policy-making will depend on a synergy of AI capabilities and human intelligence, with the latter being essential for exercising judgement, and making final policy decisions.