AI’s Rapid Growth Risks Widening Africa’s Digital Divide

Africa’s limited digital infrastructure may cause it to lag in the AI revolution. David Martinon, French Ambassador to South Africa, emphasizes that AI requires substantial infrastructure and connectivity investments to ensure widespread access. Hun Kim of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank warns that without essential components like cloud services and high-speed networks, AI will remain inaccessible in many African regions. The Agence Française de Développement has pledged €288 million between 2021 and 2023 for broadband and data centers across Africa, but this is only a fraction of what’s needed. Collaborative efforts among financial institutions, governments, and the private sector are crucial to bolster Africa’s digital infrastructure and prevent the continent from falling further behind in AI advancements. 

Source: Forbes Africa