- The National Insight presents to you invaluable insights into the level of AI preparedness in Africa.
- Afirica has the least value on AI readiness by regional classification, according to the IMF.
- South Africa, Tunisia and Kenya are the leading countries in AI preparednes in Africa
As the rest of the world is gearing towards a transformative society powered by deep-tech solutions, Africa, however, is not left behind. Artificial intelligence is the new gem in town, and everyone is rushing to catch up with cutting-edge technology—shaping almost every sector in the modern world.
Africa is not leading in AI invention and tech application to various challenges, but the AI preparedness is booming—signalling a futuristic change in view and attitude towards a tech revolution shaping businesses, health, global security, education, agriculture, and governance.
The AI Preparedness Index (AIPI) by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) provides invaluable insights through an in-depth assessment of macro-structural indicators across 174 countries on the penetration of AI technology in digital infrastructure, human capital and labor market policies, innovation and economic integration, regulation, and ethics.
The report shows that Africa is still limping towards AI readiness, with only a few of them making significant investment in technology infrastructure, education, and policy frameworks to foster an environment conducive to AI development.
AI preparedness on a regional basis shows a growing gap between the developed economies and African countries, with the continent value score standing at 0.34 against North America, Europe, Asia & Pacific with a probable score of 0.74, 0.63, and 0.52, respectively.
South Africa is a flourishing tech hub and considered the leader in AI preparedness on the continent. The country boasts of a robust tech ecosystem, with numerous startups focusing on AI applications, traversing various sectors, including finance, healthcare, and agriculture.
Kenya, on the other hand, has gained recognition for it’s innovative use of technology, particularly in mobile applications and fintech. In November 25th, 2024, Kenya officially launched one of its kinds—the Silicon Savannah Innovation Park, a futuristic tech initiative aimed at deciphering the technological gaps within and across the continent.
Kenya and Egypt have heavily invested in digital transformation and AI technologies as part of the Vision 2030 strategy. A bunch of these countries are prioritizing education training programs to equip the workforce with necessary digital skills as part of the AI preparedness.
Government policies and infrastructure development have been the prevailing barriers to the tech roller coaster on the continent. Internet access is still a major challenge, denying millions the opportunity to tap on the gradual tech advancement in Africa.
South Africa, Tunisia, and Kenya are top AI preparedness leaders in Africa. Rwanda, Morocco, Ghana, and Botswana are scaling up in an unprecedented manner at a quicker pace that would see them penetrate the deep-ends in teach realities.
