The newly created African AI Council will provide the platform for nations to achieve the continent’s ambition of leveraging AI to transform its economies, industries, and societies. This initiative aims to stimulate AI innovation and position Africa as a key player in the global tech landscape. In a world where AI is rapidly transforming industries, Africa must take part in this technological revolution. This article explores the implications of this initiative, the key figures supporting it, and the perspectives for the continent.

Context and Objectives of the African AI Council

The African AI Council is created in response to the growing need for effective governance and regional collaboration in the field of artificial intelligence. According to McKinsey’s report, AI could contribute up to 15.7 trillion USD to the global economy by 2030. In turn, Africa, with its young and dynamic population, has the potential to benefit from this. The Council’s mission is to:

• Promote innovation
• Develop appropriate policies
• Foster AI research on the continent

The main objectives of the Council include:

• Encouraging research and development by supporting local initiatives and facilitating access to necessary resources.
• Training talent by establishing programs to develop AI skills among young people.
• Promoting ethics and regulation by setting ethical standards for AI use.
• Facilitating collaboration by creating a network between governments, businesses, and universities to share best practices and innovations.

Inaugural Council, composed of 15 members, will be officially unveiled at the upcoming AI World Summit in Africa. This forum will be organized by Rwanda’s Center for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) and the Rwandan Ministry of ICT and Innovation, in partnership with the World Economic Forum.

Importance of AI for Africa

Africa is at a decisive turning point in its technological development. With a population of over 1.3 billion people, 60% of whom are under 25, the continent has an untapped reservoir of talent. AI could add significant value to the African economy by 2030, representing an unprecedented opportunity for African countries.

Key sectors that could benefit from AI include:

• Agriculture: Using AI to optimize agricultural yields could reduce poverty and improve food security. For example, AI-based solutions can help predict weather conditions and manage water resources.
• Healthcare: AI can transform healthcare by improving disease diagnosis and treatment. Studies show that AI can reduce medical errors by 30%.
• Education: AI can personalize learning and make education more accessible, especially in rural areas.

Key Figures on AI in Africa

Here are some key figures to better understand AI’s impact on the continent:

• AI Investments: In 2023, AI investments in Africa reached 1.5 billion USD, a 50% increase from the previous year. This figure is expected to continue growing with the support of the African AI Council.
• AI Startups: According to Disrupt Africa’s report, the number of AI startups in Africa doubled in two years, reaching 200 in 2024. These companies innovate in various fields, from fintech to healthcare.
• AI-Related Jobs: A report by the International Labour Organization (ILO) estimates that AI could create 1.5 million jobs in Africa by 2030 while transforming existing jobs.

Challenges to Better Exploit AI Potential

Despite these opportunities, Africa faces several challenges in developing AI :

• Technological Infrastructure: Many African countries lack adequate infrastructure to support AI development. Internet access remains limited in some areas, hindering innovation.
• Training and Education: While the potential is enormous, there is a lack of AI-focused educational programs. According to a UNESCO report, only 5% of students in Africa take courses related to AI.
• Regulation and Ethics: The absence of clear regulatory frameworks can hinder AI development. The African AI Council will need to work on policies ensuring the ethical and responsible use of technology.

Opportunity for Africa to Catch Up Technologically

The launch of the African AI Council represents a crucial step for the continent. By promoting innovation and supporting AI development, Africa can not only catch up technologically but also become a leader in this field. African countries must collaborate to create an ecosystem conducive to innovation by investing in education, improving infrastructure, and establishing clear regulations.

In conclusion, the African AI Council has the potential to transform the continent’s technological landscape. With a young and dynamic population, growing investments, and political will, Africa can leverage artificial intelligence to drive its economic and social development. The path is still long, but with initiatives like this, the future of AI in Africa looks promising.