Africa seeks localized AI development and human capital investment

Experts and industry leaders are calling for a shift in how Africa approaches artificial intelligence, emphasizing the need for localized technology and human capital investment over mere infrastructure development.

Carlos Amoako, CEO of AlphaVecta Technologies, argues that the continent must move from importing AI systems to building homegrown solutions tailored to local challenges. He identified financial inclusion, healthcare, and agriculture as critical sectors for AI application in Ghana. Amoako noted that while Africa possesses significant talent, progress is hindered by weak systems and a reliance on external decision-making.

A World Bank report suggests that Sub-Saharan Africa could see an economic boost of up to 4 percent through AI adoption over the next decade. However, the International Monetary Fund points to significant gaps in electricity, internet access, and digital skills as barriers to adoption. In Kenya, a $1 billion digital ecosystem project involving Microsoft and G42 was recently suspended due to challenges regarding the electricity capacity required to support planned data center infrastructure.