Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds the power to transform the African societies, drive economic growth, and improve the well-being of its people.
By Emma Ogbuehi
Artificial Intelligence (AI) holds the power to transform the African societies, drive economic growth, and improve the well-being of its people.
To this end, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is fully committed to supporting the development and deployment of AI technologies in Nigeria and across the continent. It is working to create an enabling regulatory framework that promotes innovation while safeguarding the interests of consumers and citizens. The Commission is also collaborating with stakeholders to establish AI research and development centres, incubation hubs, and startup ecosystems to nurture homegrown AI talent.
These are declarations of the Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of the NCC, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta in his keynote address at the opening ceremony of the 11th edition of the Digital Africa Conference and Exhibition, holding from September 19 to 21 in Abuja. The theme for this year’s event is “Artificial Intelligence and Africa,”
Danbatta, who was represented at the occasion by the Head, Consumer Information and Education, NCC, Dr. Emilia Nwokolo, remarked that the theme is both timely and significant, adding that it attests to the NCC commitment to harnessing the power of technology to drive economic growth, social development, and innovation across the African continent.
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He noted that Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as one of the most transformative technologies of the contemporary time, stressing that its potential to revolutionize industries, enhance productivity, and improve the quality of life for citizens cannot be overstated.
Danbatta expressed optimism that AI will play a pivotal role in shaping Africa’s digital future, citing several examples of AI-powered software currently in use, including voice assistants, face recognition for unlocking mobile phones, fingerprint biometrics, and machine learning-based financial fraud detection.
“In recent years, we have witnessed remarkable advancements in AI across various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, finance, transportation, education, and even governance. AI-powered solutions have the potential to address some of Africa’s most pressing challenges, such as limited access to healthcare, food security, financial inclusion, and infrastructure development”, the EVC/CEO enthused.
Danbatta listed several critical factors that must be addressed for Africa to fully embrace the benefits of AI.
He said; “First, we must invest in building the necessary digital infrastructure. This includes expanding broadband connectivity.
In Nigeria, as of July 2023, the broadband penetration stood at 47.01%. Also, the continent must commit to ensuring reliable power supply and fostering a conducive regulatory environment. Without robust infrastructure, the potential of AI will remain untapped, and the digital divide will further widen.
“Secondly, we must prioritize digital skills development. AI technologies require a skilled workforce capable of developing, deploying, and maintaining these systems. We need to invest in education and training programs that equip our youth with the necessary skills to participate in the AI-driven economy. By nurturing a generation of AI experts, we can elevate Africa’s position in the global AI landscape and create job opportunities for our youth.
“Moreover, ethical considerations must underpin our approach to AI. As we deploy AI systems, we must ensure transparency, accountability, and fairness. We must guard against biases, protect privacy and data security, and uphold human rights. AI should be a force for good, promoting inclusivity and leaving no one behind.
“Collaboration and partnerships are also crucial in unlocking the potential of AI in Africa. We must foster collaboration among governments, regulatory bodies, academia, the private sector, and civil society. By working together, we can share knowledge, pool resources together, and leverage expertise to drive innovation and create an enabling environment for AI adoption”.
Danbatta urged participants in the forum to work together to build an inclusive, sustainable, and AI-powered Africa.