As artificial intelligence (AI) gains momentum, concerns have emerged regarding privacy, bias, fake news and safety. These discussions have sparked debates about the need for regulation. While regulation might be essential, it is crucial to approach it cautiously – considering the potential consequences of hasty restrictions on innovation and economic growth.
Instead of solely focusing on the downsides, ongoing conversations on the continent should emphasise how we can harness this technology for economic growth. In PwC’s 2017 semi-annual report, ‘Sizing the Prize’, the consulting firm predicted that AI would contribute US$15.7trillion to the world’s GDP by 2030. North America and China are expected to experience the most significant economic gains, with AI enhancing their GDP by 14.5 percent (US$3.7trillion) and 26.1 percent (US$7trillion) respectively, by 2030. Unsurprising, Africa’s growth in the AI economy is comparatively minimal and features less prominently in the report (Figure 1).
Figure 1
Recognising this potential, Mauritius became the first African country to publish a national AI strategy in 2018. Egypt followed suit in 2021, envisioning AI as a catalyst for economic transformation. Kenya, Tunisia and Botswana have also taken steps to embrace AI, establishing dedicated entities to guide its development and nurture talent. Rwanda has set up a technology centre focused on digitalisation and AI, and is currently planning its own AI strategy. Senegal is building an ‘AI city’ 35 kilometres from its capital, and Benin Republic is developing its first AI digital neighbourhood in Cotonou. Nigeria has created the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics. Notably, Ghana is among the countries considering legislation to regulate AI use.
However, despite these individual efforts, a cohesive strategy across the African continent is necessary. The African Union High-Level Panel on Emerging Technologies (APET) recognises this need and is working toward consolidating stakeholder outputs, policy frameworks and strategies. This initiative is commendable, as it aims to promote cohesion and maximise the benefits of AI for Africa.
To ensure the success of a comprehensive AI strategy, we must focus on five key areas:
- Recruit and train AI researchers
Investing in research and training programmes is crucial for developing a skilled AI workforce. By attracting talented researchers and providing them with resources and opportunities, Africa can build indigenous expertise to drive AI innovation. Empirical evidence has shown that countries prioritising research and development expenditure have witnessed higher levels of innovation and economic growth. Investing in AI researchers will cultivate a culture of innovation and enable Africa to compete globally.
2. Establish the Africa AI Fund
Creating a dedicated fund to support AI initiatives and startups is essential. Access to funding plays a vital role in fuelling innovation and growth. By establishing the Africa AI Fund, Africa can stimulate investment in research and development, empower startups and nurture a thriving AI ecosystem. In 2021, out of over US$100billion invested in AI, less than 3 percent came to Africa – with more than 80 percent allocated to research and development. To compete, we need funding mechanisms specially designed to de-risk AI projects and fuel adoption and growth in areas such as agriculture, medicine and health, education and security.
3. Delay regulation for now
While concerns surrounding AI are valid, imposing heavy-handed regulations in the early stages of AI development may stifle innovation. AI is a rapidly evolving field, and premature regulation may impede experimentation and hinder the discovery of breakthrough solutions. History has taught us that innovation flourishes in environments that allow for experimentation and exploration. The internet, for example, grew exponentially due to the absence of restrictive regulations in its early days. It is crucial to balance addressing concerns and fostering innovation to unlock the full potential of AI.
4. Embed AI in secondary and tertiary education
Integrating AI education into higher education curricula is pivotal for equipping the next generation with skills needed to navigate the AI-driven world. By incorporating AI as a core component of tertiary education, Africa can empower its youth and prepare them for the jobs of the future. Empirical evidence shows the positive impact of integrating emerging technologies into education. Countries that prioritise STEM education have seen increased student interest and improved skills in those fields. By providing comprehensive AI education, Africa can cultivate a talent pool equipped to leverage AI across various sectors and drive innovation.
5. Create policy incentives for AI companies
Governments should design policy incentives to encourage the growth and development of AI companies. This can be achieved through tax-breaks, grants, streamlined regulations and other measures that foster an enabling environment for AI startups and businesses. Successful policy incentives have driven innovation and economic growth in many countries. For example, Singapore’s Research, Innovation and Enterprise (RIE) framework has led to significant advancements in AI and related fields. By providing a favourable policy environment, Africa can attract investments, nurture AI-driven businesses and create a vibrant ecosystem that contributes to economic development.
In conclusion, Africa’s journey toward an AI strategy presents an opportunity to harness the potential of this transformative technology for sustainable growth. While regulation may be necessary in the future, it is crucial to prioritise investment in research, foster a supportive ecosystem and empower the next generation through education. By taking a cautious approach, grounded in empirical evidence and lessons from history, Africa can position itself as a global player in the AI landscape; thus unlocking new possibilities and driving societal progress. Through collaborative efforts led by bodies like APET and the collective will of African governments, a cohesive and forward-thinking AI strategy can pave the way for a prosperous and inclusive future for Africa.
>>>the writer is a technologist (started and invested in tech startups) and previously led the francophone unit of Ghana-based policy think-tank IMANI Africa. Currently, he is the CMO of Africa’s premier car-sharing platform, Treepz.
