Mobile Networks: Key to Unlocking AI Growth in Africa, Says GSMA

A new report from the GSMA (Global System for Mobile Communications Association) highlights the crucial role mobile networks will play in driving AI adoption and economic growth across Africa. The report, "AI for Africa: Use Cases Delivering Impact," identifies over 90 AI use cases in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa that could significantly boost the continent's economy. (Read More)

Major Highlights

• Economic Impact:

  • AI applications could boost Africa's economic growth by $2.9 trillion by 2030.

  • This is equivalent to increasing annual GDP growth by 3%.

• Predominant AI Use Cases:

  • Agriculture: 49%

  • Climate action: 26%

  • Energy: 24%

• Type of AI Applications:

  • 98% are predictive AI applications leveraging machine learning (ML) approaches.

  • These are favored due to available historical datasets and lower computational requirements.

• Barriers to AI Adoption:

  • Limited availability of data centers

  • Rising costs of hardware and software

  • High energy demand for AI computing

The Role of Mobile Networks

1. Primary Internet Access: Mobile networks are the main mode of internet access in Africa.

2. Edge Computing Potential:

   • Mobile networks can enable distributed or hyperlocal edge computing.

   • This reduces reliance on high-powered data centers.

3. Smartphone Penetration:

   • Currently at 51%, expected to reach 88% by 2030.

   • Smartphones can be used for fine-tuning AI models locally.

Other Challenges and Recommendations

1. Local Language Data: Need for AI models trained on African language data to better reflect local markets.

2. Skills Development: Focus on increasing AI skills for both builders and users, especially among underserved populations.

3. Partnerships: Collaboration needed across 'big tech', NGOs, governments, and mobile operators.

4. Policy Evolution: Address inequality, ethics, and human rights concerns in AI deployment.

KINI BIG DEAL (Why Does this matter)

While mobile networks offer a promising path to accelerate AI adoption in Africa, a holistic approach involving skills development, partnerships, and policy adjustments is necessary to fully realize the potential of AI for economic growth and societal impact across the continent.