As the global competition for Artificial Intelligence (AI) accelerates, African nations are facing an urgent call to keep pace escaping from the risk.
During the third Pan-African Conference on Artificial Intelligence, researchers cautioned that the continent’s technological gaps could widen unless decisive action is taken.
This warning is particularly critical for African countries like Ethiopia where technological infrastructure is limited.
While the African Union (AU) has developed a Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy, many experts who presented their perspectives on the Conference argued that the current investment in AI is insufficient to bridge these gaps.
AI is already revolutionizing industries globally, and Africa cannot afford to be left behind.
According to Meta’s FAIR AI researcher Jean Maillar, natural language processing (NLP) technologies are simplifying communication across linguistic divides, demonstrating how AI can solve practical challenges in Africa.
He stressed the importance of investing in such technologies, noting that Africa, with its vast cultural and linguistic diversity, deserves a fair share of AI development. NLP, in particular, holds promise for uniting the continent’s many languages, yet Africa’s contribution to AI innovation remains limited.
A recent United Nations Advisory Body report on AI highlights the risks of Africa’s marginalization in the AI sector. It shows that 118 countries, many in Africa, are not adequately engaged in shaping global AI governance. The lack of representation also could lead to systems to be biased against Africans. Moreover, the report warns of risks associated with advanced AI systems, such as the confabulations of large language models and the potential threats they pose to peace and security.
One of the most immediate dangers of AI is disinformation. AI-generated fake news is becoming a major threat to democratic institutions worldwide, including in Africa.
The evolving nature of AI makes it crucial to view these risks from the perspective of vulnerable communities and societal interests.
For Africa, the rapid adoption of AI without adequate safeguards could undermine efforts to strengthen governance and social cohesion, according to UN report published last month.
Ethiopia, one of the African countries taking significant steps toward AI integration, is setting an example for the continent. The Ethiopian government has called on both local and foreign investors to take advantage of the AI sector, which aligns with its broader national digitalization goals.
During the Pan-African Conference, Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh urged African technology developers to create AI-driven solutions that go along with the continent’s needs. He pointed out that AI offers a way to unlock Africa’s untapped technological potential, while also addressing its unique challenges.
According to Temesgen, Ethiopia’s commitment to AI development is evident in the achievements of the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute. The institute has been implementing projects in areas such as natural language processing, healthcare, and agriculture. For instance, AI-driven medical devices are being deployed to diagnose breast cancer, while AI technologies are optimizing agricultural practices to combat food insecurity. These innovations show how AI can address critical social issues and improve the quality of life for millions of Africans.
The economic potential of AI in Africa is also huge. AI could contribute 1.2 trillion USD to Africa’s GDP by 2030, beyond figure that reflects the potential to economic growth. However, this potential can only be realized if the necessary infrastructure is put in place, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen acknowledged.
Many African countries, including Ethiopia, still lack the essential infrastructure required to support the growing AI industry. The DPM also emphasized the need for further investment in technological infrastructure to keep up with the growing demand for AI-driven solutions.
Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Instititute Director General Worku Gachena (PhD) reiterated the urgency of Africa’s engagement with AI. He warned that as global competition in AI intensifies, African nations must take bold steps to keep pace.
AI holds the potential to revolutionize key sectors such as agriculture and industry, making it a crucial tool for economic empowerment and development, he said.
BY YESUF ENDRIS
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024
