Artificial Intelligence Is Not New—It Demands Boldness, Common Sense, and Long-Term Vision
Artificial intelligence (AI) has stirred countless discussions across Africa and beyond. Yet, it’s crucial to remember AI is not a brand-new technology. Though the term surfaced in the 1950s, its roots stretch much further back—drawing from foundational mathematical principles like probabilities, matrix operations, and gradient descent that have been studied for decades.
AI defies a single, universal definition. One common description labels it as “the ability of a machine to simulate human cognitive functions such as learning, problem-solving, and decision-making.” But even this can be debated. Is AI a subset of computer science? A blend of multiple disciplines? Or should the term “intelligence” itself be reconsidered? Philosophers and scientists continue to discuss these questions.
The Current AI Landscape and Its Growing Momentum
After several periods of stagnation, known as “AI winters,” the technology is now thriving. This surge results from exponential growth in data availability, computing power, and advanced statistical methods. Governments worldwide are crafting national AI strategies, signaling a new era for the technology.
However, successful AI deployment demands addressing fundamental challenges that remain unresolved in many areas. Universal access to electricity and smart devices is essential. Open access to public data must be secured urgently to foster innovation instead of wasting opportunities. Beyond relying on international grants, local funding must support scientific research aligned with national development goals. Education systems need to expand offerings that develop AI skills at all levels.
Data Sovereignty and Ethical Use: Avoid Becoming Mere Consumers
Currently, most individuals provide their data freely to large AI companies, often without fully understanding the implications. While improved services are a benefit, issues such as data sovereignty, privacy, ethical use, and the true economic and social impact require focused attention.
We must remain cautious about AI’s risks. Social media and screens already consume excessive attention. Repeating these mistakes with AI would be detrimental. It’s vital to rationalize AI use to preserve essential cognitive abilities like attention, memory, critical thinking, and social interaction. This responsibility extends to future generations, with educational institutions playing a crucial role.
Corruption, Continuity, and the Need for Clear Vision
Corruption hampers scientific projects in many countries, including those focused on AI, stalling solutions to real societal problems. What’s needed is more common sense, unity, and policy continuity. Constantly rewriting strategies with every administrative change only wastes progress.
It’s time to adopt clear and strong visions. We must reinvent what truly needs reinvention, solve problems innovatively, and support entrepreneurship backed by committed public authorities. Building on existing foundations and prior work will help move forward sustainably.
Final Thoughts
Artificial intelligence is not a fleeting novelty but a complex field demanding bold actions grounded in sovereignty, education, ethics, and steady policy. For Africa to benefit fully from AI’s potential, these prerequisites must be met with determination and clarity.
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