Version: 01

Effective date: November 2025

Brand: The African Comics & Cinematic Empire (TheACE)

Executive Summary

TheACE uses artificial intelligence to support the research, creative analysis and editorial work that drives our coverage of Africa’s comic books, animation and wider creative industries. This Policy sets out how we use AI responsibly — protecting creators, strengthening accuracy, safeguarding data and ensuring that all published content remains unmistakably human-led.

TheACE’s approach balances innovation with integrity. AI helps us work smarter and faster, but our stories, insights and cultural judgement always come from people. This policy ensures that the tools we use elevate African storytelling rather than distort or diminish it.

1) Scope and Applicability

This policy applies to everyone working with or for TheACE (staff, contractors, interns, volunteers, and external partners) across all editorial, research, production and distribution activities. Though headquartered in Nigeria, TheACE operates across Africa and globally, and these standards apply everywhere we work.

2) Guiding Principles

2.1 Human-Led Storytelling

AI may assist, but it never leads. All final editorial decisions, accuracy, context, cultural nuance and legal compliance, rest with human editors. TheACE’s stories remain fully human-shaped.

2.2 Accuracy and Verification

Any AI-assisted work must be properly sourced and verifiable. Editors must check primary sources, cross-reference independent materials and keep a record of verification for at least 12 months.

2.3 Transparency

Where AI meaningfully shapes research or drafting, we disclose it. Our notes and bylines follow a consistent transparency format.

2.4 Integrity and Responsibility

We do not use AI to produce misleading metrics, inflated engagement signals or deceptive narratives.