Robotics and Artificial Intelligence in Africa

Artificial intelligence (AI) provides many opportunities for social and economic empowerment in developing countries. However, when one thinks of Africa, robotics does not spring immediately to mind as the most relevant application of AI, considering that the continent typically has high unemployment and fast-growing populations. Nevertheless, some countries in Africa have embraced robotics on the basis that it has an important role to play in their economic development. In this article, we explore this role and the ways in which Africa can best exploit the opportunities afforded by intelligent automation and robotics. It also highlights strategies to offset the threats posed by global factors, such as premature deindustrialization.