Nigeria is set to host one of Africa’s foremost technology events on Tuesday, showcasing discussions that range from Wolof-speaking chatbots to cutting-edge medical algorithms. The conference aims to harness the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to catalyze economic transformation. However, significant challenges such as inconsistent internet connectivity, unreliable power supply, and limited investment continue to pose major obstacles.
A Platform for Innovation and Inclusivity
The African Digital Economy and Inclusion Conference, taking place in Lagos, will convene policymakers, business leaders, academics, and various stakeholders to explore how AI can spur growth while ensuring equitable access. Over two days, participants will delve into the intersection of private innovation and public policy.
With the theme “AI and Africa’s digital economy: leaving no one behind,” the organizers seek to confront systemic inequalities surrounding digital access and the adoption of new technologies across the continent. Key discussions will cover the application of AI and big data to foster economic growth, the implementation of digital ID systems to facilitate cross-border trade, and the imperative of enhancing gender and youth participation in the digital workforce.
The race for AI advancement is characterized by the participation of both public and private sectors, with Africa’s digital economy currently estimated at €155 billion and projected to reach nearly €700 billion by 2050. Adedayo Oketola, Chairman of the AFDEIC Organizing Committee, highlighted that despite the rapid development in fintech, e-commerce, and AI, Africa continues to grapple with critical gaps in digital infrastructure.
Millions of rural Africans still lack internet access, leaving them unable to take advantage of digital financial services and e-learning opportunities. Compounding this issue are inadequate electricity supply and a shortage of skilled professionals in the field. “This disparity hampers the fair distribution of opportunities within the digital economy and underscores the need for targeted interventions,” Oketola noted.
Last year, the African Union unveiled its 2030 Continental Strategy on AI, which includes establishing a regulatory framework and launching various projects aimed at bolstering AI development. In February, approximately 40 nations collaborated to form the African AI Council, aimed at promoting the utilization of new technologies throughout the continent.
Challenges from Political Inaction
Professor Seydina Ndiaye, an AI expert, attributes the lag in progress, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, to insufficient government support and investment. “While a number of communities are beginning to incorporate AI, there is still a noticeable absence of government backing,” he shared. “The resources for advancement are available; what is lacking is the political will to actualize these opportunities.”
The continent’s reliance on foreign technology further exacerbates the situation. “This dependency creates a significant gap, as local companies struggle to keep pace with global advancements,” he said.
Pioneering Homegrown Solutions
Despite these challenges, a number of indigenous technologies are emerging. Private sector initiatives are increasingly making strides in health, education, and agriculture. For instance, Rwanda’s DoctorIA algorithm aids in medical diagnoses where expert resources are scarce. Similarly, generative AIs like Senegal’s AWA are capable of conversing in Wolof and can be integrated within popular messaging applications.
Sah Analytics, a trailblazer in AI from Ivory Coast, has developed an app to assist local authorities in tackling inflation. “We are collaborating with the Ivorian Ministry of Commerce to address the rising cost of living,” said Yaya Sira, CEO and founder. The application allows citizens to photograph items, which are then geolocated to facilitate prompt governmental responses.
Innovative Solutions for Agriculture
Fit for Purpose, a Belgian company, has established a subsidiary named Neotex.ai in Africa to address the specific needs of cattle identification in Kenya. Co-founder Messiah Cedric Obeneke mentioned that creating a custom recognition model required nearly a year of extensive research and development. “Now, cattle can be identified and registered with a simple photo, similar to human identification, reducing fraud and improving data accuracy for lending institutions,” he explained.
Pauline Meratagia, a researcher from Cameroon’s Yaoundé First University, emphasized AI’s integral role in solving social issues across the continent. He pointed out how AI tools are enhancing agricultural practices, particularly in predicting locust invasions and flooding through satellite imagery. Furthermore, mobile applications can now identify plant diseases through simple leaf scans. Meratagia highlighted that AI could also facilitate “smart watering” systems in agriculture by monitoring environmental conditions to optimize irrigation.
Meratagia asserted that Africa’s contributions to AI will not only benefit the continent but also offer global insights, fostering new concepts and knowledge that can advance AI on a worldwide scale.
