Africa stands on the brink of transformative opportunities offered by the fourth industrial revolution, particularly artificial intelligence (AI). However, the continent’s vast digital divide remains a critical obstacle to realizing these benefits.
During the final session of the 2024 African Economic Conference (AEC) in Gaborone, Botswana, Dr. Pedro Conceição, co-author of the upcoming 2025 Human Development Report (HDR), emphasized that AI in sub-Saharan Africa is more likely to complement human labor rather than replace it.
“Rather than focusing on AI’s ability to surpass human capabilities, we should concentrate on creating institutions and policies that enable AI to enhance human potential and development,” Dr. Conceição remarked.
The 2025 HDR, titled Harnessing the Opportunities of Digital Transformation to Advance Human Development, will delve into the complex interplay between digitalization, including AI, and human development. It will address the dual potential of AI to either bridge or deepen inequalities, reshape political systems, and transform economies.
Dr. Conceição acknowledged the challenges posed by AI, including potential exclusion due to underrepresentation in training data and job displacement. However, he highlighted its benefits, such as reducing barriers to entry for businesses, enabling rapid growth, and democratizing access to specialized capabilities.
Other experts at the conference expressed concerns about Africa’s readiness for advanced technologies like AI. Natalie Jabangwe, Executive Secretary of the Timbuktoo Foundation, noted that despite strides in digital inclusion, the lack of basic infrastructure—such as reliable electricity and data connectivity—remains a significant barrier.
“There’s a lot of hype about AI, but do we have the infrastructure to fully benefit? Not yet. Without reliable power, digital advancements cannot transform lives or build capacity effectively,” Jabangwe warned.
Alain Ndayishimiye, Head of AI and Machine Learning at Rwanda’s Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, pointed out that while Kigali aspires to lead Africa in AI innovation, challenges like infrastructure gaps, regulatory frameworks, and workforce readiness continue to slow progress.
On a more optimistic note, countries like Botswana and Namibia have made headway in improving digital connectivity. Their efforts to provide online access in public spaces like schools and hospitals and lower data costs have significantly enhanced lives and businesses.
The 2024 AEC, co-hosted by the African Development Bank (AfDB), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), concluded on Monday. Held under the theme Securing Africa’s Economic Future Amidst Rising Uncertainty, the event brought together leaders, experts, and innovators to tackle pressing issues such as geopolitical tensions, climate change, and economic instability.
As Africa grapples with these challenges, the conference underscored the urgent need for foundational investments in infrastructure to unlock the full potential of AI and drive inclusive development across the continent.
