Harnessing the power of AI key for Africa’s tech startups

In a bid to reshape Africa's trajectory and move the continent towards becoming creators rather than mere beneficiaries of Artificial Intelligence (AI), tech startups in Africa are increasingly harnessing the power of AI. One key player in this movement is Mumbi Ndung’u, the Executive Director of the Power Learn Project (PLP), who recently discussed the economic potential of AI and how African youth can seize the opportunities it presents. Speaking at a summit led by His Excellency Paul Kagame, Ndung'u emphasized the importance of cultivating quality capacity among young Africans to ensure global competitiveness in the technology sector. She emphasized the need for Africans to transition from merely benefiting from AI advancements to becoming creators in the field. This shift in perspective is crucial, especially as the world looks to Africa for talent and innovation. The adoption of AI in Africa has been remarkable, with young people at the forefront of this movement. This presents a unique opportunity for the continent to redefine its narrative from being passive recipients to active leaders in the tech industry. However, challenges such as the pace of adoption, the quality of talent, and the need for upskilling remain prevalent. Ndung'u highlighted the gaps in AI adoption, particularly in education systems and governance structures. The lack of adequate frameworks for governing AI poses significant challenges across various sectors, including finance, healthcare, and social media. Moreover, the fragmented nature of African data presents a hurdle for investors and policymakers looking to leverage AI for decision-making. One of the primary obstacles facing investors is the scarcity of aggregated data in Africa. Despite commitments from governments, the implementation of data-driven initiatives is hindered by a lack of data accuracy and accessibility. This issue is further exacerbated by the high demand for AI education and training programs, as evidenced by the overwhelming response to initiatives like the Power Learn Project's scholarships for young tech enthusiasts. With thousands of African youth eager to engage with AI technologies, there is a pressing need for increased resources and support from both the public and private sectors. Ensuring that African talent is globally competitive, promoting data sovereignty, and empowering young innovators to drive AI innovation are essential steps towards leveraging AI for sustainable economic growth and development in Africa.