Smart Africa, a pan-African initiative focused on digital transformation, has launched the Africa AI Council to drive artificial intelligence (AI) adoption and innovation across the continent. The Council will act as a central body that brings together governments, industry leaders, and academic institutions to develop policies, foster innovation, and create an environment that supports AI-driven growth. Comprising 15 members from various sectors, its goal is to integrate AI into key industries like agriculture, healthcare, and finance to boost productivity and economic opportunities.
Despite AI’s potential to transform African economies, challenges such as inadequate digital infrastructure, a shortage of skilled professionals, and data privacy concerns remain significant barriers. The Africa AI Council aims to address these issues by promoting investments in AI infrastructure, advocating for AI education programs, and developing policy frameworks that ensure ethical and inclusive AI adoption. Through partnerships with governments and academic institutions, the Council will push for AI-focused curricula in universities and specialized training programs to equip Africa’s workforce with the necessary skills.
This initiative aligns with Smart Africa’s broader mission of accelerating digital transformation through initiatives like the Smart Africa Digital Academy and the One Africa Network. By prioritizing AI, the Africa AI Council seeks to position the continent as a competitive player in the global AI ecosystem. As AI continues to reshape industries worldwide, this move ensures that Africa is not left behind but instead takes a proactive approach to harnessing AI’s full potential for economic and social development.
Read the full news here: TechPoint Africa