Can Africa lead the next wave of AI development?

Africa is on the cusp of a technological revolution as global investments in artificial intelligence continue to skyrocket. Traditionally positioned as consumers of technologies developed in the Global North, there is a growing push to flip this narrative and position Africa as a leader in AI development. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Shikoh Gitau, CEO of Qhala Limited, outlined the key factors necessary for Africa to harness the power of AI, including talent, infrastructure, datasets, funding, and governance. Gitau emphasized the importance of collaboration between the private and public sectors, as well as local institutions and the government, in bridging the existing gaps. Several African organizations and universities are already making strides in AI research and model development, laying the groundwork for a unified effort towards AI advancement on the continent. One of the primary challenges highlighted by Gitau is the lack of data collection in Africa over time, hindering the ability to train AI models effectively. To address this issue, concerted efforts are needed to build a robust data ecosystem that can support the development of AI technologies. Additionally, creating a market around AI and establishing strong governance structures will be crucial in bringing AI to life in Africa. While African governments have begun launching AI policies and governance documents, the key lies in institutionalizing and implementing these frameworks to drive real change. Gitau stressed the untapped potential of Africa's data sets, emphasizing the continent's unique opportunity to shape the future of AI development. With only a 2% global contribution to data sets currently, Africa holds a wealth of data that can drive innovation and create homegrown AI models. Investing in AI research and talent development is essential for Africa to stay competitive in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence. As the world moves towards commoditization of AI models, Africa must invest in creating its own models to avoid being left behind. Ethical considerations also play a significant role in the development of AI technologies, particularly in the African context. Gitau introduced the concept of 'Ubuntu AI,' which emphasizes community values and identity in AI model development. By centering AI around the principles of Ubuntu, Africa can bring a unique perspective to global AI ethics and deployment strategies, fostering a more inclusive and community-oriented approach to technology. When considering the economic impact of AI in Africa, Gitau highlighted the potential for significant growth and productivity gains in sectors such as healthcare and education. With AI projected to contribute $15.2 trillion globally by 2030, Africa is set to play a crucial role in this expansion. By focusing on addressing key challenges in food security, healthcare, education, and economic development, African-led AI models can drive GDP growth and improve productivity across various sectors. Health care, in particular, stands out as a promising area for AI innovation, with the potential to democratize access to world-class healthcare services and improve overall quality of life on the continent. In conclusion, Africa stands at a pivotal moment in its technological evolution, with the opportunity to shape the future of AI development and deployment. By leveraging its talent, infrastructure, data, funding, and governance structures, Africa can position itself as a frontrunner in the global AI landscape. Collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors, local institutions, and governments will be essential in driving this transformation and unlocking Africa's full potential in the age of artificial intelligence.