According to AI4D Africa, Africa currently represents only 2.5% of the global artificial intelligence (AI) market. However, emerging applications have the potential to boost the continent’s economic growth by a staggering US$2.9 trillion by 2030. A GSMA report titled ‘AI for Africa: Use cases delivering impact’ highlights over 90 AI use cases identified through research and interviews with leaders in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa, showcasing their potential for driving socio-economic and climate impact.
Max Cuvellier Giacomelli, the head of mobile for development at GSMA, emphasizes the need to focus on enhancing skills for both AI builders and users, particularly among underserved populations, to harness the transformative power of AI in Africa. He stresses the importance of better training programs, considering the global brain drain of AI talent, and advocates for strong partnerships across various stakeholders. Giacomelli also highlights the need for evolving policies to address concerns related to inequality, ethics, and human rights in AI deployment.
However, there are significant hurdles to overcome in unlocking the full potential of AI in Africa, such as the limited availability of data centers and the high costs associated with technology investments. The report suggests that by addressing digital skills gaps and increasing smartphone penetration, mobile-based AI solutions could offer a practical way to overcome these limitations and fully tap into AI’s potential across the continent.
