How Technology and AI Are Shaping Africa’s Future

The rapid advancement of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed industries worldwide, and Africa is no exception. At the launch of the Zongo Business Incubator, industry expert Lantam Abdul Jabar the CEO of COLDSIS shed light on how technology can unlock opportunities for Africa and the challenges that need to be addressed for Africa to compete on the global stage. The discussion covered his insights into AI, the technological landscape in Ghana, and the importance of policy and regulation.

Opportunities in Tech and Global Citizenship

Abdul Jabar began by highlighting the vast opportunities available in the tech sector. AI, robotics, and other innovations are reshaping industries, and those who fail to adapt risk becoming obsolete. For example, AI is set to automate various professions, such as healthcare and education. “Doctors will need to diagnose patients virtually, and teachers will need to embrace online learning,” he stated.

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In light of these changes, the speaker emphasized the need for individuals to prepare for a future where technology dominates the workforce. He urged people to adopt a global mindset, saying, “Everyone must become a global citizen.” With the growing prevalence of remote work, a person based in Ghana can now work for companies in the U.S., Canada, or elsewhere without physically relocating. The ability to think globally is no longer optional—it is essential for staying relevant in the digital economy.

However, the conversation soon turned to one of the key barriers to realizing this potential: internet access.

Overcoming Internet Challenges in Ghana

One of the significant challenges facing Ghana and other parts of Africa is inconsistent internet access. The speaker acknowledged this issue but urged entrepreneurs not to be discouraged. While internet connectivity in Ghana may be lacking in some areas, improvements are being made. He pointed to initiatives like the arrival of Starlink, which could improve connectivity soon.

“Yes, we have internet challenges, but are we not better than Togo or Ethiopia?” he remarked, suggesting that while the internet may not always be perfect, there are ways to mitigate these limitations. He advised aspiring entrepreneurs to explore different internet service providers and ensure they have reliable options to support their work.

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The Double-Edged Sword of AI

As the discussion moved forward, Abdul Jabar delved into the potential dangers of AI if not properly regulated. He agreed with global concerns about AI’s capacity to disrupt job markets but also highlighted its potential to cause societal harm, particularly in regions like Africa that are still in the early stages of technological adoption.

“AI is like a knife; it can be used for good or bad,” he explained. One of the major concerns is the misuse of AI to create deep fakes, spread misinformation, or even damage people’s reputations. AI-driven cyberbullying and the rise of automated bots that imitate human behavior were also flagged as growing problems. These issues underscore the need for strong policies to regulate AI use across Africa.

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The CEO shared his involvement in contributing to policy discussions aimed at managing AI in Africa. Without these policies, he warned, Africa could face significant damage from AI misuse, including the spread of harmful content and the erosion of privacy.

Content Regulation and Its Impact on African Progress

One of the most striking points made during the discussion was about the content Africans consume online. According to the speaker, much of the content popular in Africa—particularly on platforms like TikTok—is entertainment-focused, with little emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

“Look at our biggest content—it’s comedy. There’s no focus on technology, engineering, or mathematics. And that makes us inefficient thinkers,” he lamented. The lack of educational and intellectually stimulating content hinders the continent’s ability to nurture innovative minds capable of driving technological advancements. The speaker called for better regulation of online content in Africa, urging governments and institutions to create policies that promote STEM-related content over entertainment.

The Future of Entrepreneurship in Tech

The interview concluded with a message of hope and encouragement for entrepreneurs. Despite the challenges, the speaker insisted that the future is bright for those willing to adapt and innovate. His advice was simple but powerful: “Keep improving your skills, and don’t give up. If you don’t give up, you will be successful.”

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Entrepreneurship, especially in the tech field, offers immense opportunities. He encouraged those interested in tech to stay persistent, even when faced with difficulties like poor internet access or regulatory challenges. “If you want to be rich, go into entrepreneurship,” he said, highlighting the transformative potential of pursuing a career in tech.

Conclusion

The insights shared during this interview at the Zongo Business Incubator serve as a wake-up call for Africa’s tech and entrepreneurial community. While the continent faces significant challenges—such as inconsistent internet access, the misuse of AI, and the lack of educational content online—there are also vast opportunities for those willing to embrace the changes brought by technology. By adopting a global mindset, pushing for better AI regulations, and focusing on improving skills, Africa’s entrepreneurs can help shape the continent’s digital future.

The full interview, along with other business and technology-related content, can be found on the DTC OfficialGh YouTube channel, where viewers are encouraged to engage with the discussion and explore more insights into Africa’s technological transformation.