DR MARK NASILA
With the following Contributors:
Somil Gupta | Prof Benjamin Rosman | Isazi Consulting | Dr Tapiwa Chiwewe | Aaron Frank | Atenkosi Ngubevana | Amb. Dr Lavina Ramkissoon | Mic Mann
About the Book
Data, like oil or minerals, is a vital resource – and who owns it is critical, especially as it fuels the artificial intelligence (AI) revolution. Sovereign AI is about much more than countries merely owning their data, it’s about control.
It ensures AI aligns with their cultural, ethical, and legal frameworks. It’s about making sure AI works for people and not the other way around.
Businesses, nations, and leaders are quickly realising the need to embrace sovereign AI. This marks a profound shift from building software to creating intelligence. AI has already transformed the world; how we think about its ownership will determine what comes next.
In this groundbreaking and thought-provoking book, Mastering Sovereign Artificial Intelligence, AI expert, researcher, and speaker Dr Mark Nasila explores what sovereign AI really means, how it differs from other AI models, and why understanding it is essential for the future.
He outlines the shifting geopolitical landscape of AI and the emerging trends shaping international competition, delving into how AI intersects with national security, the economy, and global power.
Data and AI sovereignty demand that countries develop skilled AI workforces, establish AI factories, and embed governance and ethics from the very start of any AI strategy.
With insights from leading global experts, this handbook is essential reading for anyone interested in AI – from individuals and business leaders to policymakers and parents concerned about the future of work.
AI is the defining asset of our age, and how we choose to own and govern it will shape the destiny of nations – and our place in the world.
About the Author
Dr Mark Nasila is a leading authority in artificial intelligence and data science, currently serving as Chief Data and Analytics Officer at First National Bank Risk. He is also affiliated with the Singularity Group, NITheCS, Stellenbosch University, and the University of Johannesburg, where he contributes to advancing AI education and strategy.
At FNB, his pioneering use of AI has transformed risk management and forensic due diligence, setting new standards in banking innovation. A sought-after speaker, Dr Nasila has presented at major forums including the Business-Tech Digital Banking Conference and the SingularityU South Africa Summit. He is also the bestselling author of African Artificial Intelligence.
With a PhD in Mathematical Statistics from Nelson Mandela University and executive training from SingularityU South Africa, Dr Nasila’s achievements span academia, industry, and global thought leadership.
As a board member of Moody’s Analytics Europe and Africa advisory board and an Honorary Member of the Golden Key International Honour Society, Dr Nasila continues to shape the future of AI with integrity, innovation, and impact.
This book is published by Tracey McDonald Publisher,s and it is available online and in all good bookstores.