An Associate Professor at De Montfort University (DMU) Leicester has been recognised as one of the most influential women working within Artificial Intelligence (AI) regulations and ethics.
Dr Kutoma Wakunuma, an Associate Professor in the faculty of Computing, Engineering and Media, has been named in the 2025 top 100 Brilliant Women in AI Ethics by Women in AI Ethics, a not-for-profit organisation that champions the representation and empowerment of women in AI.
Kutoma in the Zambian Parliament
Having co-authored two books – Trustworthy AI and Responsible AI in Africa: Challenges and Opportunities – Dr Wakunuma is helping to shape AI policies in Zambia through a series of workshops with the African country’s parliament and policymakers, funded by The International Science Partnerships Fund.
Speaking of her surprise at the recognition, Dr Wakunuma said that her inclusion in the 100 ranked among her top five achievements.
She said: “I had no idea I would feature. It’s a great honour to be in the company of so many inspiring people – it feels great. You don’t always know the impact of your work until someone points it out to you.”
For more than 15 years, Dr Wakunuma has been developing research on the social, ethical and cultural implications of digital technologies across the world, with a particular emphasis on the development of AI between the global north and developing countries in the southern hemisphere.
Among her highlights in 2024, she has given a keynote speech on Ethical Guidance on AI at the University of Lucerne’s (Switzerland) Ethics of Human Rights Symposium in front of Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Prof. Dr. Irina Scherbakowa.
She was also invited to speak about AI governance and ethics at the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights before conducting her first AI workshop with members of the Zambian Parliament in November. Her final workshop is set to take place next month in March.
Dr Wakunuma said: “Developing countries, particularly in the global south, are adopting AI systems. The development of these systems should not just be focussed on the technical aspects but should be built with a full understanding, and appreciation of, what it means to build responsible AI systems, as well as the impact they may have on their communities, particularly around data protection and privacy.
“Policymakers need to ensure that the AI systems they are bringing in are designed to cope with the challenges in their nations and that they respect the privacy of their people.
“So far, my workshops have highlighted the varying levels of understanding of AI, underscoring the urgent need for awareness and education. There is a clear call for bridging the gap between stakeholders to ensure better AI policy development.
“I’m hoping my work in Zambia can be used in such a way to promote social good when AI becomes mainstream there.”
Professor Shushma Patel, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Artificial Intelligence at DMU, said: “I am really proud that Kutoma has been recognised as one of the top 100 women in AI.
“Responsible use of AI is crucial for developing countries as it drives economic growth, bridges the digital divide, and addresses societal challenges like healthcare, education, and agriculture. Using AI ethically prevents bias and privacy violations, while strong governance and policies ensure fairness and protection. With the right strategies, AI can be a transformative force for inclusive and sustainable progress.
“With International Women’s Day approaching in March, it is crucial to recognise the contribution of women, especially in tech. We are lucky to have Kutoma working in this field in our faculty and inspiring the next generation of graduates and equipping them to use AI responsibly.”
Posted on Monday 24 February 2025
