Over the years, the systematic exclusion of Africa from global technological advancements has held back development on the continent.
However, as the advanced world embarks on the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI), it is crucial that African countries are included and not left behind.
The question that looms large is: how can we ensure that AI responds to Africa’s unique challenges and aspirations?
In a thought-provoking paper, “The Role of the African Value of Ubuntu in Global AI Inclusion Discourse: A Normative Ethics Perspective,” Arthur Gwagwa, Emre Kazim and Airlie Hilliard delve into the complex dynamics at play.
The trio highlight the stark reality that while AI promises immense wealth generation, it could also deepen socioeconomic disparities in Africa.
They point to limited access to technological progress and the shadows of historical injustice and exclusion.
Their analysis underscores a pressing issue: unless there are conscious efforts to include Africa’s voice in the AI dialogue, potential benefits could remain out of reach for the continent.
Telkom group executive of innovation Mmaki Jantjies recently posed a crucial question: “How can Africa ensure its constant representation in global digital innovations, particularly AI?”
Answering this question is urgent considering the potential biases inherent in AI algorithms, which can perpetuate the marginalisation of underrepresented groups.
Jantjies raised this concern on Monday at the Southern Africa Telecommunication Networks and Applications Conference (Satnac), highlighting the need for proactive measures.
A significant step towards addressing this challenge has been taken by Telkom, in collaboration with the University of the Witwatersrand, through the establishment of the Telkom Industry Solutions Lab.
Telkom believes this initiative is strategically designed to imbue innovation within its business by infusing African perspectives in emerging technologies.
Articulating this intention, Jantjies said: “We wanted the Telkom voice, we wanted the African voice in it, and that’s why we are going to double our investment.”
This commitment demonstrates a conscious move towards ensuring that African insights and requirements are incorporated into the development of AI.
Already, Telkom has made strides in integrating AI to enhance customer experiences.
Using AI to predict customer churn and personalise services, Telkom showcases the power of technology to address local challenges.
The Izwe.AI platform, designed to understand South African accents and dialects, is a commendable example of harnessing the technology to cater to linguistic diversity.
This innovation holds promise in breaking language barriers, making technology more accessible, and empowering customers to engage in their mother tongues.
Izwe.AI was developed by a student from Santac in partnership with data labelling company Enlabeler.
Telkom CEO Serame Taukobong rightly notes that this initiative enables customers to relate and communicate effectively, aligning technology with cultural nuances.
Telkom’s strides towards customising AI to meet local needs present an inspiring model that deserves applause.
If this spirit of adaptation is taken up by other companies, it could usher in a wave of investment in locally-driven AI start-ups.
Such collaborations between established players and emerging innovators hold the potential to amplify the representation of African voices in AI development and other ground-breaking technologies.
The nurturing of local start-ups by larger companies is pivotal to fostering diversity in AI design, ensuring that a range of backgrounds and experiences are considered.
It’s important to recognise that AI’s potential extends far beyond technological progress — it’s about fostering inclusivity, embracing diversity and reducing the disparities that have plagued Southern Africa throughout history.
Africa’s journey with AI should be a collaborative effort, bringing together public and private sectors, academia and entrepreneurs to craft solutions that truly resonate with the continent’s realities.
Gwagwa, Kazim and Hilliard correctly argue that by embracing the African value of ubuntu — recognising the interconnectedness of humanity — AI can be harnessed to uplift marginalised communities, bridge gaps in healthcare, education, and agriculture, and drive sustainable growth.
The trajectory of AI presents a unique opportunity for Africa to reshape its narrative.
By actively participating in the AI discourse and integrating its insights into the development process, the continent can mitigate the risks of exclusion and inequality.
Telkom’s initiative sets a precedent, a testament to what can be achieved when innovation is blended with inclusivity.
However, this journey is not one that any single entity can undertake alone — it requires a collective commitment to amplify Africa’s voice, ensuring the AI revolution becomes a catalyst for progress, equality, and shared prosperity across the region.
• Lourie is the founder and editor of TechFinancials.
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