Let's approach AI with caution, initiative-Akufo-Addo to Africa's tech leaders

President Nana Akufo-Addo has urged African technology and digital development experts to approach Artificial Intelligence (AI) with both caution and initiative, ensuring the continent harnesses its potential to address significant challenges. 

While AI could help Africa accelerate its development goals, he emphasized the importance of using it responsibly.

Speaking at the “Forward Africa Leaders Symposium (FALS),” organized by Africa Soft Power on the margins of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at the Ford Foundation, Akufo-Addo highlighted AI’s transformative power. 

The President further admitted that AI is reshaping our lives and work, however, there was a need for ethical usage, ensuring its benefits are widely shared. This, he said, requires investment in education, especially in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), to equip Africa’s youth for leadership in the evolving digital world.

Also delivering an address at the same event, the CEO of Development Bank Ghana, Prince Adjei, acknowledged the fast-paced technological advancements impacting the nature of work.

 AI and automation, he explained, are transforming traditional entry-level jobs, which were once manual, into roles requiring digital proficiency.

In addition, he highlighted the need to equip Africa’s young population with essential skills such as digital literacy, data analytics, cybersecurity, and entrepreneurial thinking.

Mr. Adjei proposed three key strategies to prepare Africa’s youth for success in the digital age. First, he called for a transformation in the continent's educational systems to meet modern workplace demands, advocating for early integration of STEM subjects. 

Second, he stressed fostering a culture of entrepreneurship, encouraging young Africans to create jobs rather than only seeking them. 

Lastly, he emphasized collaboration between governments, educational institutions, the private sector, and development organizations to create environments where policies, curricula, and financial support align to foster innovation.

The Forward Africa Leaders Symposium, held under the theme “Moving the Conversation Forward on Africa’s Digital Economy with Leaders at the Forefront,” brought together global and African leaders to discuss key actions required to develop an integrated digital economy in Africa.