Tech Expert Ali Kingston Mwila has disclosed the need for African countries to build their own capacity to understand, develop and apply artificial intelligence AI instead of remaining largely consumers of technologies developed elsewhere Mwila told Zambian Business Times-ZBT in an interview that African countries should take a more active role in understanding AI and identifying areas where the technology can address local challenges.
“African countries should take keen interest to try to understand this development and also try to improve it for personal benefit,” he said. He said the continent could benefit from AI by identifying sectors where the technology could address immediate challenges, rather than adopting it simply because it is a global trend. “Where we can benefit from AI is looking at where it is needed most and solve some immediate problems,” Mwila said.
Mwila cited healthcare as one area where AI could support the delivery of services, particularly through advanced technologies that can assist health professionals in areas such as research, treatment and specialised procedures.
However, he cautioned against viewing AI as a replacement for human workers, particularly at a time when countries such as Zambia continue to have qualified professionals seeking employment. “Currently we need people to work,” he said.
Mwila said the focus should instead be on training existing and future professionals to use AI tools and other advanced technologies to improve their work. “The question will be how can we train people to use AI tools and other advanced medical techniques so that they can leverage and we can have a shorter period of treating certain challenges,” he said.
He said African institutions, including universities and training institutions, should therefore incorporate modern technologies into education so that students develop relevant skills before entering the workforce.
“If we can have the learners being taught now how to use these modern technologies from the start as they enrol to study and pursue and advance their careers, that would help,” Mwila said.
According to Mwila, developing local skills would also allow African countries to better understand the opportunities and risks associated with AI. He said the rapid development of AI had raised concerns around ethics and governance, making it important for countries to establish appropriate safeguards as the technology becomes more widely used.
“Experts are concerned that when we let AI begin to go out of their scope, that may harm humans,” he said. Mwila also warned that the growing use of AI in areas such as autonomous systems and military technologies demonstrated the need for stronger discussions around responsible development and use of the technology. “It can be lethal when it is not governed or guided,” he said.
He said African countries should therefore not approach AI solely as a threat, but should seek to understand the technology while developing mechanisms to ensure it is used responsibly.
By Philip sinkala
