The Power of AI Across Africa

By Monica Pun

When I started my last-mile delivery startup in 2020, AI was hardly on our radar. Today, things are different. With AI tools, we could have saved countless hours building rider routes and developing communication campaigns.

AI is transforming industries and reshaping business practices globally, including in Africa. It enhances productivity, drives innovation, and fosters economic growth.

Agriculture

In agriculture, AI-powered solutions are revolutionising farming practices. Precision farming technologies like drones and IoT sensors collect real-time data on soil conditions, weather patterns, and crop health. For instance, Aerobotics, based in Cape Town, uses AI-driven insights to aid tree and vine farmers through drone and satellite technology.

Healthcare

AI innovations are significantly improving healthcare. AI applications in diagnostics, such as image recognition and predictive analytics, enable early detection of diseases like cancer and malaria. Mobile health platforms provide remote consultations and personalised treatment plans. I spoke with Zuri Health recently (listed on The FutureList) and they are using AI diagnostic tools with voice and facial recognition capabilities for mental health screening.

Financial Services

AI is transforming financial services by enhancing security, efficiency, and inclusivity. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants streamline customer service and reduce operational costs. One example is Nokwary, a Ghanaian Fintech startup that uses AI to break barriers to digital access, connect people and bring convenience to consumers.

Education

AI is reshaping education by providing personalized learning experiences and addressing disparities. Adaptive learning platforms tailor content to individual students’ needs. For instance, uLesson, a Nigerian Edtech platform also listed on The FutureList, offers real-time assistance and AI-driven responses customised for each student.

Transportation and Logistics

The transportation and logistics sector in Africa benefits from AI advancements that enhance efficiency and safety. AI algorithms optimise route planning and fleet management, reducing fuel consumption and delivery times. Jetstream Africa, another FutureList member who I spoke with recently, uses AI to streamline cross-border payments, while Cloudline, another innovative FutureList company, deploys autonomous vehicles and drones for goods delivery in remote areas.

Conclusion

AI is driving significant transformation across various industries in Africa, providing solutions to longstanding pressing challenges that we never thought we would witness in our lifetime. As AI technology continues to evolve, its potential to shape Africa’s industries and businesses is truly remarkable, promising a more prosperous and innovative continent. 

I hope you’re optimistic about the future of AI just as I am.

Help Shape the Future of AI in Africa

Sand Technologies and Africa Practice, supported by Google, are partnering with The FutureList to study AI adoption by startups and small businesses in Africa.

I invite you to participate in our 5-minute survey to share how you’ve leveraged AI tools in your business. Your insights are crucial in shaping the future of AI in Africa.

By participating, your company may be included as a case study in the upcoming research report and featured on The FutureList. The deadline to complete the survey is Friday 19th July.

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