This session will provide a comprehensive exploration of how Africa's youth population can harness artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies to develop innovative solutions addressing the continent's most pressing challenges. With 60% of Africa's population currently under 25 years old (World Bank 2024) and the continent's digital economy projected to grow to $712 billion by 2050, these emerging technologies represent a transformative opportunity for youth empowerment, job creation, and sustainable development._x000D_ The discussion will feature an in-depth examination of four critical areas: First, we will showcase groundbreaking applications of AI and IoT developed by young African innovators across key sectors - from precision agriculture tools increasing crop yields by 40% in Nigeria to AI-powered diagnostic systems improving healthcare access in rural Kenya. Second, we will analyze the persistent skills gap, where despite 72% youth smartphone ownership, only 28% have access to quality AI/IoT training programs (GSMA 2024). Third, we will address the challenge of technological dependence, with 90% of AI tools currently used in Africa being foreign-developed, often lacking cultural and linguistic relevance. Finally, we will highlight success stories like Rwanda's national AI academy training 5,000 youth annually and Mali's open-source IoT firmware reducing implementation costs by 60%._x000D_ Through this session and interactive discussions, participants will: gain practical knowledge about developing contextually appropriate AI and IoT solutions; discover accessible learning resources and funding opportunities for skills development; understand policy frameworks enabling youth innovation; and connect with a pan-African network of peers and mentors. The session will specifically feature a live demonstration of low-cost IoT solutions using sub-$50 components, making the technology accessible to participants across economic backgrounds._x000D_ Designed for young innovators, students, educators, and policymakers alike, this session aims to both inspire and practically equip Africa's next generation of digital leaders. Participants will leave with actionable insights into how they can contribute to building an inclusive, homegrown digital transformation that leverages Africa's unique strengths and addresses its specific needs, while avoiding the pitfalls of technological dependence that have characterized previous industrial revolutions.
Africa is at the dawn of a major digital revolution, yet it remains the continent that has contributed less than 5% to global carbon emissions. However, as digitalization expands across the continent, there is a risk that, without sustainable practices, Africa could see a surge in e-waste, high-energy consumption, and environmental degradation. If not carefully managed, digitalization could accelerate pollution instead of serving as a tool for sustainable development.
This session will explore how Africa can build a digitally advanced yet environmentally responsible future. We will discuss the potential risks of unchecked digital growth and highlight eco-friendly digital innovations that offer Africa a more resilient, cost-effective, and sustainable pathway than traditional digitalization. Green digitalization can reduce operational costs, enhance energy efficiency, and position Africa as a leader in sustainable innovation while avoiding the environmental mistakes made by industrialized nations.
Through real-world case studies, we will examine how governments, businesses, and tech communities can adopt green data centers, promote e-waste recycling, develop energy-efficient AI, and implement sustainable internet infrastructure. Additionally, we will discuss the role of public-private partnerships, policy frameworks, and local innovations in ensuring that Africa’s digital transformation aligns with global climate commitments.
Session Objectives - Understand the risks and opportunities of Africa’s digital growth in relation to environmental sustainability. - Highlight the benefits of eco-friendly digitalization, showing why it is more cost-effective and advantageous for Africa’s long-term development. - Showcase sustainable tech innovations that reduce the environmental impact of digital infrastructure. - Discuss regulatory and policy solutions to ensure digital expansion does not come at the cost of environmental degradation. - Encourage a multi-stakeholder approach involving governments, businesses, and civil society to balance digital transformation with ecological responsibility.
Expected Outcomes - A roadmap for sustainable digitalization in Africa, with actionable recommendations for stakeholders. - Case studies of successful green digital initiatives from across the continent. - Commitments from governments and tech companies to adopt responsible digital policies. - Opportunities for collaboration between policymakers, entrepreneurs, and researchers on sustainable digital solutions. - Increased awareness of how green digitalization can drive economic and environmental benefits for Africa.
By acting now, Africa has the opportunity to leapfrog towards a more sustainable digital economy, avoiding the environmental pitfalls of other regions while unlocking innovation, economic resilience, and long-term prosperity.
