Africa’s AI Revolution: Reclaiming the Digital Narrative

When Steven De Backer speaks about artificial intelligence (AI) in Africa, he doesn’t just discuss technology — he articulates an urgent narrative of empowerment. As the founder of Afriwise, a legal intelligence firm, De Backer understands that the continent’s AI journey is about far more than computational power.

Currently, Africa represents a mere 2.5% of the global AI market, dominated by foreign solutions that rarely address local complexities. Yet, this landscape is poised for profound transformation. According to GSMA’s AI4D Africa report, emerging innovations could boost the continent’s economic growth by an estimated US$2.9 trillion by 2030.

The challenge isn’t a lack of potential but systemic barriers. Less than 10 African countries have established national AI strategies, and Oxford Insights’ 2023 Global AI Readiness Index ranked sub-Saharan Africa last among nine global regions. But these statistics tell only part of the story.

“Africa is rich in data but the data has not been aggregated,” De Backer explains. More than 90% of daily generated data remains unstructured, with volumes set to increase by up to 65% annually. This fragmentation isn’t a limitation but an opportunity for localised AI intervention.

Gérald Croonenberghs of Silikin Village articulates a critical perspective: Western AI models are inherently biased, reflecting patriarchal and culturally narrow perspectives. The solution lies in “homegrown AI” that authentically represents African experiences and linguistic diversity.

Consider the language disparity: a 2024 report from The African Observatory on Responsible Artificial Intelligence reveals that merely 0.02% of online content exists in African languages, compared to 53% in English. This imbalance threatens to perpetuate digital exclusion.

The Democratic Republic of Congo offers a compelling case study. With 90 million people, 60% under 25, the country represents a vibrant ecosystem of untapped technological potential. Initiatives like Silikin Village — an entrepreneurial hub supported by TEXAF — are cultivating spaces for local developers to innovate, train, and contribute to the global digital economy.

Partnerships are crucial. Afriwise’s collaboration with TEXAF demonstrates how strategic alliances can transfer critical skills and create dynamic technological ecosystems. By investing in local talent and contextually relevant solutions, African innovators are not just participating in the global AI conversation — they’re reshaping it.

As De Backer, who grew up in Kinshasa, passionately affirms: “The story of AI in Africa will not just be about technology — it will be about empowerment.”

Read next: Ethical AI: More Than Just a Buzzword