Empowering youth in the digital age

Africa's role in the global economy is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the growing impact of artificial intelligence. This pressing issue took center stage at the ongoing G20 summit, where leaders are discussing the future of global economic cooperation amongst the member states. For more on this, CNBC Africa’s Fifi Peters caught up with Phuti Mahanyele-Dabengwa, CEO of Naspers South Africa, who is also the chair of the digital transformation tract of the B20. The B20 is meeting in Cape Town, in parallel with the main G20 meetings, to discuss action plans to implement under the broader objective of driving inclusive growth. The agenda of the digital transformation tract focuses on empowering the youth in the digital age, ensuring that the global south imperatives are included in the narrative of digital transformation. Mahanyele-Dabengwa emphasized the importance of having young people proficient in STEAM subjects, including the arts, to enable them to be digitally enabled and capable of building programs required for success in AI. She stressed the significance of inclusivity in AI product development to represent the diversity of the global population. The digital transformation task force is working towards encouraging gender equality, digital education, supportive policies, and entrepreneurship in the digital landscape. They are exploring initiatives like creating a fund for digital technology development in Africa to support innovative entrepreneurs. Mahanyele-Dabengwa highlighted the importance of having a diverse team of co-chairs from major tech companies and African countries to ensure the continent's representation in ongoing discussions. The goal is to create legacy projects that sustain Africa's participation in the global AI landscape even after the conclusion of the B20 summit in November. Mahanyele-Dabengwa acknowledged the need for improved digital infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of affordable internet access and reliable broadband for cloud computing and other advanced technologies to flourish. Despite political uncertainties between major players like China, the US, and Africa, the digital transformation task force aims to maintain inclusive engagement and continue business collaborations irrespective of political dynamics. The recent acquisition of Just Eat Takeaway International by Naspers Prices Group marks a significant move into the global food delivery market, with plans to leverage their iFood business in Latin America for expansion. The CEO, Fabricio, is determined to drive growth and success in the food delivery sector, positioning the company for a promising future.