Approach AI proactively but with caution – Akufo-Addo urges Africa’s tech leaders

President Akufo-Addo has called on technology and digital development experts on the African continent to approach the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with caution but as proactively as possible to ensure that the continent harnesses its potential to address pressing challenges of the continent.

Delivering a keynote address at the “Forward Africa Leaders Symposium (FALS),” organised by Africa Soft Power, in collaboration with Convene Africa and Development Bank of Ghana (DBG) on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at the offices of the Ford Foundation, President Akufo-Addo said while AI has great potential to leapfrog Africa’s quest for development, it must be used ethically.

“One area where we must be particularly proactive is artificial intelligence (AI). AI is already changing the way we live and work. From predicting disease outbreaks to improving agricultural practices, if we harness AI’s potential, we can address some of Africa’s most pressing challenges in health care, education, and environmental sustainability, President Akufo-Addo remarked.

“However, we have to approach AI with caution. We need to ensure that it is used ethically and that its benefits are shared by all, not just a few this requires investment in education, particularly, in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics so that our young people are prepared to lead in this new world,” Akufo-Addo further remarked.

Empowering Africa’s Youth

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Development Bank Ghana (DBG), Prince Adjei, in his statement at the symposium, noted that as the world witnesses rapid advancements in technology, it is extremely important to acknowledge the profound shift it brings.

The nature of work according to Mr Adjei, is evolving faster than our educational systems can adapt, Artificial intelligence and automation are not just buzzwords; they are realities that have seamlessly integrated into our everyday work environments and any traditional entry-level jobs that once served as gateways into the workforce are being transformed or even replaced by these technologies.

“Reflecting on this, many of us began our careers when tasks like scheduling, basic data processing, and customer management were predominantly manual. These were the essential skills of entry-level positions. Fast forward to today, and the scene has drastically changed.

“Sophisticated software now manages many of these tasks, reshaping what it means to be “entry-level.” The digital revolution has transformed these foundational roles, with AI not just assisting but often fully automating processes,” Mr Prince Adjei said.

“This evolution prompts a critical question: How do we prepare our youth for a world where traditional pathways to employment are changing? In this new era, there’s an emerging demand for skills that are not easily replicated by machines—skills like digital literacy, data analytics, cybersecurity, and, importantly, entrepreneurship and innovation,” he added.

To remedy this situation, Mr Prince Adjei suggested that there is the need to equip Africa’s youth with future-ready skills for sustainable success. Africa, he noted, is the youngest continent, with over 60% of its population under the age of 25.

Three-prong approach

This youthful demographic he added, is the greatest asset of the continent and it is important to empower the youth with the skills needed to thrive in the digital economy. To this end, he proposed three important steps that ought to be taken to empower the youth of the continent.

“Firstly, we must revolutionise our educational systems to align with the demands of the modern workplace. This means integrating STEM education—science, technology, engineering, and mathematics—into our curricula from an early age.

“Secondly, we need to foster a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation. Our youth should be encouraged to think beyond seeking employment to creating employment. This entrepreneurial spirit is essential for driving economic growth and addressing the unemployment challenges we face,” .

Thirdly, collaboration is key. No single entity can achieve this monumental task alone. Governments, educational institutions, the private sector, and development organizations must work hand in hand. We must create ecosystems where policies support innovation, educational curricula align with industry needs, and financial institutions provide necessary support to budding entrepreneurs.

The FALS

The Forward Africa Leaders Symposium was held under the theme; “Moving the Conversation Forward on Africa’s Digital Economy with Leaders at the Forefront.”

The Symposium convened global and African leaders who are at the forefront of financial technology and services to commit to leapfrogging the actions required for an integrated digital economy for Africa.

Panel discussion

Across two panels, the Symposium tackled two main themes. First was, Windows of Opportunity: Innovating for Shared Prosperity through Remittances and Global Connections.

Second, Cross-sector Collaborations: Investing in Critical Digital Public Infrastructure and Strategic Partnerships to Advance a United Digital Economy.

Reporting by Wilberforce Asare in New York 

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