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Smart Africa’s Vision: Connectivity, AI, and Investment Driving Africa’s Digital Future
At GITEX Africa 2025, Smart Africa emphasized improving connectivity and AI-native infrastructure to drive Africa’s digital growth. Private investment and clear regulations are key to success.
GITEX Africa 2025: Smart Africa on Connectivity, AI, and Investment for Africa’s Digital Future
At GITEX Africa 2025, Lacina Koné, CEO of Smart Africa, shared insights on the key challenges and opportunities driving Africa’s digital transformation. The focus was on enhancing connectivity, building digital infrastructure, and integrating artificial intelligence (AI) to support sustainable development across the continent.
Key Topics Covered
- 0:44 Connectivity Challenges in Africa
- 2:01 Digital Infrastructure & AI-Native Data Centers
- 2:52 Private Sector Investment & Government Role
- 4:47 Regulation to Attract Investment
- 5:25 Africa AI Council Objectives
Connectivity as the Foundation: Bridging Gaps in Coverage and Usage
Koné emphasized that digital transformation depends entirely on connectivity. While 46% of Africa’s population currently has internet access, large disparities remain. He identified two main gaps: the coverage gap, where 15% of the continent lacks any infrastructure, and the usage gap, where infrastructure exists but access is limited by factors such as device affordability, relevant local content, and cybersecurity knowledge.
He pointed to low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite technology as a promising solution for achieving near 100% coverage. However, increasing actual use demands more than just availability—it requires addressing affordability and digital literacy.
Building Digital Infrastructure Beyond Connectivity
Connectivity alone is not enough. Koné highlighted the need for comprehensive digital infrastructure, including AI-native data centers that can support Africa’s growing AI ecosystem. Traditional data centers may not meet the evolving requirements of AI-driven applications, making this a critical area for development.
The Private Sector’s Role and Creating a Conducive Environment
Private sector investment is essential for infrastructure growth. Koné made it clear that infrastructure development is a business opportunity, not a charity. He urged governments to focus on creating a supportive regulatory environment that encourages innovation and attracts private investment.
Governments should provide clear guidance and safeguards around emerging technologies while stepping in to fund initiatives that ensure universal connectivity. This approach balances private sector dynamism with public interest.
“The private sector has a say first, because at the end of the day, it’s a business. The government’s role is to create a conducive environment that enables private sector investment, with clear regulations and safeguards,” said Koné.
AI for Africa: Governance, Innovation, and Ethical Use
The Africa AI Council was established to help governments craft national AI strategies, promote investment, support local research, and ensure responsible AI governance. Koné stressed the importance of focusing on AI solutions that are practical and useful, especially in sectors like agriculture, education, and healthcare, rather than pursuing the most powerful AI systems.
Looking Ahead: Leveraging Human Capital and Practical AI Applications
Despite challenges, Koné expressed optimism about Africa’s digital future. He highlighted the continent’s human capital as a key asset and encouraged focusing on AI applications that deliver tangible benefits, particularly in public service automation.
He suggested revisiting and reimagining public service processes to integrate AI effectively, which can accelerate development and create measurable impact.
For IT and development professionals interested in practical AI applications and training, exploring relevant courses can provide valuable skills to contribute to Africa’s digital transformation. Resources like Complete AI Training’s latest AI courses offer up-to-date learning opportunities.