Policymakers, business leaders, academics, and other stakeholders are gathering in Lagos for the African Digital Economy and Inclusion Conference to discuss how artificial intelligence can drive economic growth while ensuring no one is left behind.
The two-day event, themed AI and the African Digital Economy: Leaving No One Behind, focuses on combining private innovation with public policy to address systemic inequalities in digital access, participation, and adoption across the continent.
Sessions cover AI and big data for economic growth, digital identity systems for cross-border trade, and inclusion of women and youth in the digital workforce.
Opportunities and gaps
Africa’s digital economy is valued at €155 billion and projected to grow to nearly €700 billion by 2050. While fintech, e-commerce, and AI-driven services are advancing rapidly, significant infrastructure gaps remain.
Conference chair Adedayo Oketola said many rural Africans lack internet access and cannot benefit from digital financial services or e-learning. Other challenges include unreliable electricity and a shortage of skilled experts.
Policy momentum
The African Union launched its Continental Strategy on AI last year, laying the groundwork for regulation and governance bodies before moving to project implementation. In February, about 40 states formed the African AI Council to promote technology adoption.
Calls for political will
AI specialist Professor Seydina Ndiaye said delays, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, stem from insufficient government investment. “In speeches, everyone talks about AI, but structurally, we see very few concrete actions,” he said.
Home-grown innovation
Despite these challenges, African-led projects are emerging. Rwanda’s DoctorIA uses AI to aid medical diagnoses, while Senegal’s AWA chatbot speaks Wolof and integrates into WhatsApp. In Côte d’Ivoire, Sah Analytics’ app helps the commerce ministry monitor cost-of-living issues using citizen-uploaded photos.
In Kenya, Neotex.ai has developed facial recognition for cattle to help farmers secure loans and reduce fraud. Researchers in Cameroon are using AI to predict locust invasions, detect plant diseases, and manage smart irrigation.
Paulin Melatagia of the University of Yaoundé I said Africa’s contributions could benefit the world. “AI can advance globally by developing new concepts and knowledge from Africa’s perspective,” he said.
