Algorithmic Colonialism and the Appropriation of Indigenous Data: Safeguarding Cultural Epistemologies in the Digital Age

Nouridin M.

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Algorithmic Colonialism and the Appropriation of Indigenous Data: Safeguarding Cultural Epistemologies in the Digital Age

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Themes

Algorithmic colonialism, data, colonialism, data collection, Cameroon, indigenous, ethics, data extraction, consent, digitalization, technological factors, linguistic, language

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Abstract

This paper examines the emerging phenomenon of algorithmic colonialism and its implications for Indigenous data sovereignty in Cameroon. Through critical analysis of case studies across Cameroon's diverse ethno-linguistic communities, we demonstrate how contemporary data extraction practices perpetuate colonial power dynamics by appropriating, commodifying, and misrepresenting Indigenous knowledge systems. The research employs a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with Indigenous knowledge keepers (n=32), computational analysis of algorithmic systems operating in Cameroon, and participatory action research within affected communities in the Northwest, West, Southwest, and East regions. Findings reveal systematic patterns of epistemological violence enacted through algorithmic systems that fail to recognize Cameroonian Indigenous data governance frameworks.

Theoretical Framework
1. Decolonial Computing
2. Indigenous Data Sovereignty
3. Algorithmic Colonialism
Methods
1. Research Design
2. Data Collection
3. Ethical Considerations
4. Analytical Approach
Findings
1. Manifestations of Algorithmic Colonialism in Cameroon
2. Policy Development
3. Epistemological Reclamation
Towards a Decolonial Framework for Algorithmic Justice
1. Relational Accountability
2. Epistemological Plurality
Discussion
1. Theoretical Implications
2. Practical Implications
3. Limitations and Future Research

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Extract

[...] But if we don't use them, we become invisible in the digital marketplace. It's a new form of economic colonization." (Participant N5, Cooperative Manager, North Region) These findings demonstrate how algorithmic systems not only extract cultural knowledge but actively reshape economic value chains in ways that systematically disadvantage Indigenous creators and communities. 5. Indigenous interface design - Developers have created alternative user interfaces for digital platforms that better reflect Cameroonian Indigenous knowledge structures: "We redesigned the interface for accessing our digitized traditional medicine knowledge. [...]

[...] Digital ethnography tracking the flow and transformation of Cameroonian Indigenous cultural expressions across digital platforms, with particular attention to traditional medical knowledge, artistic expressions, and oral traditions. 3. Participatory workshops with Indigenous communities in Yaoundé, Buea, Bamenda, and Bertoua to document experiences with algorithmic systems and collectively develop evaluation frameworks appropriate to Cameroonian contexts. 3.3 Ethical Considerations The research follows the principles of Indigenous data sovereignty throughout its design, implementation, and dissemination, while remaining attentive to the specific configurations of knowledge ownership in Cameroonian contexts. [...]

[...] Kukutai, T., & Taylor, J. (Eds.). (2016). Indigenous data sovereignty: Toward an agenda. ANU Press. Lewis, J. E., Arista, N., Pechawis, A., & Kite, S. (2020). Making kin with the machines. Journal of Design and Science 1-18. Mbuagbaw, L., & Thabane, L. (2022). [...]

[...] Relational ontologies - Indigenous epistemologies across Cameroon emphasize relationships between entities rather than discrete categorization. Natural language processing systems consistently failed to capture these relational dimensions: "In Baka thinking, there is no separation between the forest and ourselves, certain trees are literally our ancestors. When we speak about forest conservation in our language, we're talking about kinship. The translation algorithms completely miss this, turning our expressions of relationship into generic environmental concerns." (Participant E5, Community Leader, East Region) 3. Knowledge verification systems - Cameroonian Indigenous communities employ diverse methods for validating knowledge, including consensus processes, demonstration of practical efficacy, and verification through spiritual practices. [...]

[...] Economic appropriation operated through several specific mechanisms: 1. Algorithmic visibility asymmetries - Digital marketplace algorithms consistently prioritized non-Indigenous vendors selling Indigenous-inspired products over authentic Indigenous creators. Analysis of search results for "Cameroonian traditional art" across three major e-commerce platforms revealed that 87% of first-page results featured non-Indigenous sellers, despite the presence of authentic Indigenous vendors on these platforms. "Our Bamun bronze casters have been making traditional sculptures for centuries. Now if you search online, you'll find mass-produced 'Bamun-style' pieces made in factories. [...]

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