Africa’s progress towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is in the spotlight this year 2024. On the occasion of the flagship event of Unstoppable Africa 2024 organized by the Global African Affairs Initiative (GABI), the news reveals the growing potential of the African continent in adopting artificial intelligence (AI) to achieve these goals. This evolution is not simply the result of chance, but the result of collaboration between the stakeholders involved and access to adequate skills and infrastructure.
As a member of the GABI Circle, it is exciting to see how AI-driven initiatives from various stakeholders are supporting countries on the African continent in their quest for the SDGs.
AI is proving to be a powerful ally in bringing major advances in the health sector by offering cutting-edge services to populations that were previously deprived of them. Alongside our own solutions, Google is working with local organisations, such as Jacaranda Health in Kenya and OnTime Consortium in Nigeria, that are using AI to provide critical, life-saving information. These initiatives not only support SDG 3, but also empower women to take charge of their maternal and child health through AI-powered solutions that monitor pregnancies and predict complications, enabling early life-saving interventions.
AI is also playing a key role in strengthening food security, and addressing environmental and climate challenges that affect agricultural productivity and livelihoods. For example, Google’s AI-powered flood forecasting system directly contributes to improving disaster preparedness by providing flood forecasts and warnings up to seven days in advance. Since launching last year in two countries, the service has expanded to 80 countries, including 23 in Africa.
Furthermore, AI offers opportunities for economic growth and creates incredible prospects for start-ups and entrepreneurs. The Africa AI Readiness Index, revealed by AfriLabs’ report on mapping AI start-ups in Africa, highlights the need for more investment in AI infrastructure.
Strategic partnerships between African governments and the private sector are essential to effectively harness the potential of AI. By investing in infrastructure such as connectivity and data centres, and providing educational frameworks to train the next generation of skilled AI users in Africa, the continent can position itself for inclusive growth and development..
AI represents a unique opportunity for African nations to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. It is not just another technology, but an enabler that reduces the barriers to realizing Africa’s potential.
For Africa to catch up in the global AI race, a multi-faceted approach is needed. This involves not only investments in infrastructure and education, but also fostering a culture of learning, innovation and entrepreneurship within the public service, which is fundamental to the continent’s transformation.
It is imperative that governments put in place clear policies and regulatory frameworks that encourage AI innovation while ensuring compliance with ethical standards and data protection. Within the GABI, Google will share an AI action plan developed after months of research and investigation, aimed at guiding stakeholders in this dynamic evolution.
The adoption of AI in Africa, with its multiple positive implications in key sectors such as health, food security and economic growth, paves the way for a promising future for the continent. A future where innovation and collaboration will be the key words to achieve the vision of a prosperous and sustainable Africa, respectful of the SDGs and resolutely turned towards the future.