Davos 2024: Global leaders hold AI can be a key economic enabler

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly being hailed as a potential equalizer in the face of significant technological disruptions that are reshaping global labor markets. The recent World Economic Forum held in Davos saw global leaders discussing the role of AI as a key economic enabler, with a particular focus on the African continent. Vukosi Marivate, the Chair of the Data Science Department at the University of Pretoria, shared valuable insights into how AI is transforming Africa's technological landscape and empowering young people to harness its potential. Marivate emphasized the pivotal role of grassroots organizations in driving AI adoption in Africa. These organizations, such as the Deep Learning Endowment, Data Science Africa, and Masakane Research Foundation, have been instrumental in cultivating a vibrant AI community across the continent. Marivate highlighted the exponential growth of AI interest among young Africans, underscoring their enthusiasm for leveraging AI to address societal challenges and drive innovation. One of the critical challenges facing AI adoption in Africa is the need for robust governance and infrastructure. Marivate emphasized the importance of data accessibility and good governance practices to ensure that AI technologies benefit all segments of society. He cited the need for policies like the Protection of Personal Information Act (Popia) to safeguard data privacy and enable seamless data flows for AI development. Moreover, Marivate shed light on the imperative of investing in AI research and development to foster local innovation and address pressing societal issues. He highlighted the need for African countries to develop their AI expertise and create conducive environments for AI-driven startups and initiatives. Marivate's involvement in the African Union's AI white paper drafting process underscores Africa's commitment to shaping its AI future. The conversation also delved into the skills landscape in South Africa, with Marivate advocating for a strong foundation in mathematics and science to nurture the next generation of AI researchers. He emphasized the significance of computational thinking as a core skill for navigating the evolving tech landscape and adapting to the demands of AI-driven industries. By focusing on building a pipeline of skilled AI professionals and promoting local R&D initiatives, Marivate envisions a future where Africa leads in AI innovation and economic growth. As global economies grapple with the transformative impact of AI, Africa's embrace of this technology signals a promising path towards sustainable development and inclusive growth. By empowering its youth and investing in AI education and research, Africa positions itself as a dynamic player in the global AI landscape, poised to harness the full potential of this transformative technology.