African CEOs urged to lead AI shift from consumer to creator for economic growth
Chibuike Goodnews, CEO of Dochase Adx, says Africa must shift from merely consuming AI technologies to creating AI-driven value that captures economic benefits. He urges deliberate investment in infrastructure, research, education and innovation so the continent can shape the global AI economy instead of repeating the pattern of supplying raw materials while others reap the profits. Citing GSMA data, he notes Africa’s digital economy is projected to contribute nearly US$180 billion to GDP by 2025, with growing tech hubs in Lagos, Nairobi, Cape Town and Cairo. This matters because Africa already generates vast amounts of data and supplies critical minerals for AI hardware, yet most intellectual property and commercial value remain outside the continent. Without intentional effort, the AI revolution could repeat the historical pattern where Africa supplies inputs but captures little wealth. The continent’s youthful population and expanding startup ecosystem provide the talent needed to build competitive AI solutions, but only if leaders act now. CEOs, in particular, must move beyond delegating AI to IT departments and treat it as a strategic leadership issue, embracing responsible innovation that augments human potential. What should you know or do? Policymakers can fund AI research hubs and offer incentives for local AI product development; entrepreneurs should build AI tools that solve African challenges; professionals can upskill in AI and data analytics; businesses can integrate AI into strategy to gain competitive advantage. Will you invest in learning AI, advocate for local AI investment, or reshape your business to create AI-driven solutions that compete globally?