Building partnerships to unlock AI adoption in Africa

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been heralded as a technology with the potential to transform Africa, driving economic growth, improving healthcare, and addressing social challenges. As the continent grapples with infrastructure deficits, partnerships have emerged as a key to unlocking responsible AI adoption. David Bunei, Managing Director of Oracle Kenya and Cloud Systems Leader, East and West Africa at Oracle, discussed the crucial role of partnerships in accelerating AI adoption in a recent interview with CNBC Africa. Speaking at the Connected Africa Summit 2024 in Nairobi, Kenya, Bunei emphasized the opportunities and challenges facing Africa in harnessing AI technologies. According to Bunei, Africa is currently lagging behind in terms of the necessary infrastructure to support the demand for AI technologies. However, he highlighted the emergence of energy solutions such as solar power and high-speed internet connectivity through modern satellite technologies as promising developments. These advancements offer Africa a ray of light in accelerating the adoption of AI. Oracle, with over 20 years of experience in Africa, is actively working with both the private and public sectors to facilitate technology adoption and address the continent's unique needs. One of the critical factors in preparing the African workforce for an AI-driven future is ensuring the acquisition of relevant skills. Bunei underscored the abundance of young talent in Africa eager to learn and emphasized the importance of incorporating modern technologies like machine learning and AI into educational curricula. By integrating these technologies into universities and tertiary institutions, Africa can equip its youth with the necessary skills to drive innovation and technological advancement across various sectors. Cloud technology, another key enabler of AI, is gaining prominence in Africa. Oracle's establishment of a cloud region in Kenya reflects the growing importance of cloud computing in advancing AI adoption on the continent. Bunei highlighted the significance of cloud computing in processing vast amounts of data essential for decision-making, underscoring its role in reshaping industries and enhancing competitiveness. In addressing the diversity of languages and cultures in Africa, Bunei emphasized the role of AI as a tool for inclusivity. With thousands of languages spoken across the continent, AI has the potential to bridge communication gaps and deliver essential knowledge to diverse communities. By leveraging AI in critical sectors like education, healthcare, and agriculture, Africa can accelerate social development and improve the lives of its population. The importance of public-private partnerships in driving AI adoption in Africa cannot be overstated. Bunei highlighted the necessity of collaboration between governments and the private sector to create a conducive regulatory environment and facilitate the deployment of technology for enhanced service delivery. Such partnerships not only spur economic growth but also promote equitable access to technological advancements across various sectors. On the regulatory front, Bunei emphasized the commitment of technology companies to adhering to ethics and industry standards in AI development. By promoting industry-wide collaboration and engagement, companies like Oracle aim to prevent misuse of AI technologies and safeguard the benefits of AI for society at large. As Africa embarks on its AI journey, initiatives like the African Union's strategy for a connected Africa and the development of data policies are crucial to fostering a conducive environment for AI innovation. Oracle, as a leading technology provider, is at the forefront of driving AI adoption in Africa through cutting-edge cloud technologies and a commitment to regulatory compliance. In conclusion, partnerships, skills development, inclusivity, and regulatory frameworks are essential pillars in unlocking the transformative power of AI in Africa. With the right strategies and collaborations in place, AI has the potential to drive economic growth, improve social outcomes, and propel Africa into a technology-driven future.