The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa has urged African governments to urgently increase investment in artificial intelligence and digital technologies, warning that the continent risks being left behind in the global AI‑driven economic transformation.
The commission said African nations should strengthen domestic revenue collection, consider borrowing, and use pension and sovereign wealth funds to finance infrastructure for artificial intelligence, data systems, and frontier technologies.
“Frontier technologies and innovation are not only useful to unlock Africa’s growth potential and enhance the competitiveness of African economies through productivity growth and diversification,” said Mama Keita, Deputy Executive Secretary for Programme Support at the Economic Commission for Africa. “But they are essential if Africa is to remain competitive in the digital economy.”
The report warned that without significant investment in basic digital infrastructure, such as data centres and connectivity, African nations risk missing out on the benefits of the global AI revolution. Experts say addressing this gap is critical for future growth.
“AI can accelerate East Africa’s development strategy if it aligns with our priorities, values, and people,” Mahlet Teshome Kabede, Principal Policy Officer for Science and Technology at the African Union, said. “But this requires people-centred policies, ethical governance, and strong regional coordination.”
Several African countries, including Kenya, are moving to position themselves as regional hubs for AI investment and innovation, reflecting a growing recognition among policymakers of the role those digital technologies must play in future economic strategies.
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