The importance of widening citizens’ access to AI in Africa

By Bongani Dube | 5h ago

In all honesty, most institutions in developing countries such as Zimbabwe are not thoroughly equipped to handle such a paradigm shift both in terms of curriculum and resources.

THE digital divide has long been a significant barrier, separating those with access to digital technologies from those without.

This chasm has only widened with the advent of artificial intelligence (AI), which, while offering unprecedented opportunities, also risks exacerbating existing inequalities.

During my internship last year at Emzini wecode, I encountered communities on the frontier of the disparity in digital learning and witnessed first-hand the cumulative difference access to AI brings.

As a civic tech enthusiast, I view AI pragmatically as a tool that can effect change, whose direction is determined by the community it is seeded.

The disruptive nature of AI

AI's rise and popularity has been disruptive in career and academic spaces, as well as in everyday living. AI is transforming how people learn and interpret the world around them. AI-powered solutions can provide personalised learning experiences, automate administrative tasks, and offer valuable insights into student performance.

However, AI systems can unintentionally reinforce existing biases if they are not designed and monitored carefully.

In all honesty, most institutions in developing countries such as Zimbabwe are not thoroughly equipped to handle such a paradigm shift both in terms of curriculum and resources.

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Exacerbating the digital divide

The digital divide is not a recent phenomenon. Its roots extend deep into history, intertwined with long-standing social, economic, and political inequalities.

This divide refers to the gap between those who can access information and communication technologies (ICTs) and those who cannot. Access to technology is a prerequisite for effective use.

Lacking access to ICT in general limits access to AI. AI can exacerbate existing disparities if not thoughtfully designed and implemented. The barriers to accessing and leveraging AI technologies are deeply intertwined with existing socioeconomic structures.

For instance, low-income communities, racial and ethnic minorities, and individuals with disabilities are disproportionately affected by the lack of access to affordable technology and reliable internet connectivity. The absence of GenAI skills translates to more than just a disadvantage.

It actively excludes individuals from the hiring process.

Bridging the divide

Conversely, AI also offers unique opportunities to bridge the digital divide. AI-driven educational platforms can adapt to the pace and style of individual learners, providing personalised instruction and access to previously unattainable resources.

AI can assist neurodivergent individuals by reading text aloud to help with reading challenges and using predictive text and grammar correction for handwriting difficulties. Moreover, AI can support marginalised student groups, such as those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, first-generation students, and diverse racial and ethnic groups.

These are just surface-level implementations without being research-driven interventions. This comes from a thorough understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the digital education space.

It is from my experience from Jotter.

Jotter is an educational technology tool for delivering study material through USSD.

Vulnerable Communities and the power of equity vulnerable groups, including low-income families, racial and ethnic minorities, and individuals with disabilities, are disproportionately affected by the digital and AI divide. In Africa, only 28,2% of people have access to the internet, and data costs vary per country, making it hard to reach those who may be socio-economically disadvantaged and those who have low connectivity based on location.

The literacy gap, which includes language and digital literacy barriers, further widens these inequalities. AI has the potential to promote digital inclusion by personalising tech education and making high-quality education content more accessible.

However, ensuring equity requires a broad approach involving economic redistribution, universal basic income, extensive training programmes, state-supported AI research, and enhancement of digital infrastructure and skills.

Furthermore, information dissemination is a key feature of generative AI that often goes understated. But it may be just as invaluable to individuals and communities.

Challenges in developing countries Institutions in developing countries are not thoroughly equipped to handle the paradigm shift brought about by AI, both in terms of curriculum and resources.

Disparities in technology and internet access across different demographic groups prevent many students from fully leveraging AI's benefits. Ensuring students from all types of backgrounds are exposed to AI and given the chance to consider careers in this burgeoning field is imperative.

Conclusion

The digital divide, exacerbated by AI presents significant challenges.

But also presents unique opportunities for bridging gaps in equity and inclusion. By fostering a collective dialogue on AI literacy and making AI tools and resources accessible and affordable, we can explore inclusive strategies that ensure everyone has a seat at the table.

As a civic tech enthusiast, I believe AI, when viewed pragmatically and implemented thoughtfully, can indeed effect positive change.