Dr. Angella Ndaka is a distinguished expert in the critical examination of artificial intelligence and its societal implications, recognized globally for her pioneering work at the intersection of technology and social justice. She currently serves as Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Epistemic Justice Foundation while maintaining research affiliations with the University of Otago in New Zealand. Following the successful defense of her doctoral dissertation at the University of Otago, she has established herself as a leading voice in sustainable AI technofutures with particular focus on agricultural technology systems. Her academic foundation includes a PhD in Sociology and Gender Studies from the University of Otago, complemented by qualifications in Public Policy from the Australian National University and additional training in Intercultural and Multistakeholder Dialogues.
Dr. Ndaka's groundbreaking research examines socio-technical imaginaries of agricultural technology in Aotearoa New Zealand, providing critical insights into how AI systems impact diverse communities and agrifood systems while addressing sustainability concerns. As a feminist activist committed to indigenous and African perspectives, she has pioneered frameworks that integrate grassroots women's knowledge into AI co-design and governance processes across Sub-Saharan Africa. Her scholarly contributions have been internationally recognized with multiple prestigious awards including inclusion in the 2023 list of the 100 most brilliant women in AI ethics and the Women in AI Awards APAC Cultural Leadership category. Through her leadership on projects with Athena Infonomics and the Maaratech initiative, she has advanced understanding of how AI transforms agricultural decision-making while addressing critical issues of equity and inclusion.
As a thought leader in critical discourse around emerging technologies, Dr. Ndaka actively champions the inclusion of women and minority groups in technology innovation processes across the Global South and has been instrumental in establishing the Centre for African Epistemic Justice as a platform for amplifying marginalized voices in global AI ethics conversations. Her research has influenced policy discussions and research directions regarding responsible AI deployment in agricultural contexts, with her scholarly contributions cited over 70 times according to Google Scholar. Dr. Ndaka continues to shape the field through her writing, keynote speaking engagements, and advocacy work that centers indigenous knowledge systems and African perspectives in technological development. She remains dedicated to ensuring Africa's legitimate place in technological revolutions while promoting sustainable AI futures that prioritize social justice, cultural values, and community needs in both Aotearoa New Zealand and Sub-Saharan Africa.
