The AI economy runs on African labour and African creativity. We work on the terms.
We build the evidence and the tools that get African creators and workers paid for what AI uses.
Get in touchThe work
African journalism and creative work are already inside AI products, and so is African labour. The terms of that use are being set now, in contracts and in regulation, and the people whose work it is rarely have a say.
The Agency Lab is a venture working on digital sovereignty, data rights and fair compensation in the AI economy. Our work covers the creator economy and journalism, and extends to the labour behind AI systems. In each, we ask who owns what goes in and who gets paid for it.
Selected engagements
GIZ
Expert input for a session on due diligence in AI supply chains.
CIPESA
Opening keynote and a panel at the Forum on Internet Freedom in Africa, and a webinar on platform accountability.
DW Akademie
One of three speakers at the Africa convening of Breaking the News?, its five-region dialogue on journalism in the age of AI. Presented the project for DW Akademie at the Africa Media Festival.
MTN and the University of Johannesburg
Facilitating on the Pan-African Media Innovation Programme.
The African Editors Forum
Speaker at the Africa Editors Congress, on journalism and the creator economy.
Work with us
Research
Commissioned studies on creator economies and data rights in African markets.
Consulting
Expert input into programme design and policy where AI meets media and creative work.
Speaking and convening
Keynotes and panels, along with sessions we design and moderate.
Teaching
Curriculum and facilitation for journalists and creators, and for the institutions that train them.
Creator Addendum
The Creator Addendum is a standardised legal rider that protects a creator's intellectual property in commercial deals.
It is available on request.
Request the AddendumCurrent research
Our current study looks at how AI-generated influencers affect creator earnings and brand partnerships across Sub-Saharan Africa. We are bringing in research partners and sponsors now.
Talk to us about the studyFor commissions and partnerships, write to contact@theagencylab.co.