Very insightful post. I think also we don't currently have have experts in the field of AI nor startups keen on AI. We also do not have the ability to explore, in our own way, novel ventures to perhaps remain at par with emerging technologies. Again, there isn't VC framework for startups to mushroom in Africa. While we might be excited about AI, we are curtailed by a myriad of complex problems.
Yes that is true. I think the AI field may be different than other fields as the technology is rapidly evolving and it decreases the skill/knowledge gap Africans may have. So for the “experts” point, that is prone to change definitions in the coming years. As for the VC framework, we do have some companies getting increasing funds for AI related projects in Africa. It is not robust, as we lack infrastructure (particularly in the data and internet aspect), but I think we could come up with our own unique solutions stemming from our own unique problems. All I hope is that the solution is accessible to all and is not something that benefits the rich and weakens the poor.
Very insightful post. I think also we don't currently have have experts in the field of AI nor startups keen on AI. We also do not have the ability to explore, in our own way, novel ventures to perhaps remain at par with emerging technologies. Again, there isn't VC framework for startups to mushroom in Africa. While we might be excited about AI, we are curtailed by a myriad of complex problems.
Yes that is true. I think the AI field may be different than other fields as the technology is rapidly evolving and it decreases the skill/knowledge gap Africans may have. So for the “experts” point, that is prone to change definitions in the coming years. As for the VC framework, we do have some companies getting increasing funds for AI related projects in Africa. It is not robust, as we lack infrastructure (particularly in the data and internet aspect), but I think we could come up with our own unique solutions stemming from our own unique problems. All I hope is that the solution is accessible to all and is not something that benefits the rich and weakens the poor.
What do you think we should do as Africa to start our own journey to AI?
"All I hope is that the solution is accessible to all and is not something that benefits the rich and weakens the poor." My hope as well.
There’s a great article by Lynn Gitau on the African AI landscape: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/unlocking-silicon-savannah-assessing-africas-ai-readiness-lynn-gitau . The work has begun!