Catalysing Africa’s growth with AI

The Foresight Africa 2025-2030 report by the Brookings Institution's Africa Growth Initiative provides a forward-looking analysis of the region's top priorities over the next five years.

It emphasises Africa's economic, social, and technological potential while addressing key challenges that could impact its trajectory. The report also highlights policy recommendations and strategies for achieving sustainable and inclusive development.

I have focused a small portion of the report on how artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies can transform Africa's economic, social, environmental, and governance sectors. AI has emerged as a tool for competitiveness in all industries, and every country is rushing to build the necessary infrastructure.

AI is a powerful tool for economic expansion, with projections suggesting it could double Africa's GDP growth rate by 2035. It has the potential to positively impact nearly 70 percent of economic Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by enhancing productivity, streamlining trade, and fostering entrepreneurship.

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AI-powered automation, particularly in manufacturing and financial technology, could improve efficiency and create new job opportunities in data science, software development, and digital services.

The report adds that these benefits may not be evenly distributed, as automation could displace workers in specific industries, exacerbating economic inequalities. However, it is emerging that these narrow fears that it will replace workers will soon dissipate. A new MIT and Stanford study by Prof Li and others say AI would facilitate new job discovery.

Beyond economic applications, AI is poised to improve healthcare, education, and financial inclusion, significantly contributing to Africa's social development.

In healthcare, AI-driven diagnostic tools and predictive analytics can enhance patient outcomes, while in education, personalised learning platforms can bridge gaps in access to quality schooling.

Financial technology solutions powered by AI are expanding banking access for millions of unbanked individuals across the continent. Despite these advancements, the chapter warns of potential risks, such as biases in AI models that may not be trained on African-specific data, leading to skewed healthcare and financial services outcomes.

AI's role in environmental sustainability is also significant. With Africa facing increasing climate-related challenges, AI-powered solutions can optimise agricultural productivity, monitor deforestation, and improve disaster response systems.

Innovative farming techniques driven by AI have already shown promise in increasing crop yields and minimising resource waste. The report highlights that AI can support up to 93 percent of environmental SDG targets, helping the continent transition toward a low-carbon economy.

Governance and public service delivery also stand to benefit from AI innovations. AI can enhance transparency, streamline government operations, and even support election integrity by detecting misinformation, as seen with Zambia's iVerify platform.

While AI presents vast opportunities for growth and innovation, we have work to do to overcome major challenges that must be addressed to ensure equitable benefits.

AI advancements bring concerns about cybersecurity threats and the potential misuse of AI for state surveillance. The lack of AI regulatory frameworks across most African nations is a pressing issue, with only a handful of countries establishing national AI strategies.

Despite its promise, AI adoption in Africa faces significant barriers. The digital divide remains a major obstacle, with only 27 percent of sub-Saharan Africans accessing mobile internet, while 60 percent experience connectivity limitations.

Additionally, stable electricity and robust digital infrastructure are prerequisites for AI's successful deployment, yet many regions lack these essential resources. The continent also faces a shortage of AI talent, limiting the ability to develop homegrown AI solutions.

By addressing existing challenges and leveraging AI's transformative power, Africa can position itself as a global leader in the digital economy and unlock new opportunities for growth, inclusion, and sustainability.

The report outlines several key strategies to maximize AI's benefits. African governments must prioritize the development of national AI policies and regulatory frameworks to ensure ethical and responsible AI use. Investments in digital infrastructure and education will be critical, focusing on equipping young Africans with AI and data science skills.

The private sector must also foster AI-driven entrepreneurship and support startups that can develop Africa-centric AI solutions. Moreover, strengthening global partnerships and public-private collaborations will be essential in securing funding and technological expertise.

AI and emerging technologies hold immense potential to drive Africa's development. Still, proactive governance, ethical considerations, and infrastructure investments will be crucial in ensuring that these innovations benefit all segments of society.

The writer is the Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium and the European Union