How to ensure Africa is not left behind by the AI revolution
Weak digital infrastructure is holding the continent back
More than two decades ago The Economist calculated that all of Africa had less international bandwidth than Brazil. Alas, until 2023 that was still true. Africa’s lack of connectivity is one reason its people could miss out on the benefits promised by artificial intelligence (AI).
For decades, experts have called for better broadband across Africa, citing the gains in productivity and employment. But the economic potential of AI, and its insatiable computing appetite, have renewed the case for urgent investment in the physical sinews needed to sustain a new digital revolution.
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This article appeared in the Leaders section of the print edition under the headline “Africa 2.0”
From the July 27th 2024 edition
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