AI and Africa’s Future: Big Growth or Big Risk?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) may soon be doing for the global economy what industrialisation did back in the 1800s. A new report by PwC says AI could boost global economic output by as much as 15 percentage points in the next 10 years—and Africa could gain up to 4.9 points.
In simple terms?
AI fit help us grow faster and smarter—if we get things right.
But E No Be Automatic
PwC dey quick to remind us say this kind of economic jump no go happen on its own. It’s not just about having the technology. For this thing to work:
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AI must be deployed responsibly
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There must be proper rules and governance
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Both the public and companies need to trust it
Without all that, AI go just be another hype with no substance.
Africa’s Economy is Already Shifting
The report reveals say business pressure to change don reach record levels in Africa. In 6 out of 9 major sectors on the continent, companies are already scrambling to adjust.
In 2025 alone, PwC predicts over $150 billion worth of revenue go shift hands—from company to company—whether they like it or not. And that’s before global tariffs even start to bite.
New Industries Are Forming—Fast
PwC says AI and other tech will break traditional industry boundaries. Instead of working in silos, companies from different sectors go begin enter new “domains.”
Example?
The electric vehicle (EV) market.
It’s not just about car makers anymore. You now have:
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Electricity providers
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Battery manufacturers
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Tech companies
All coming together to build the future of mobility. Na new economy be that.
Climate Change Still A Big Wahala
Even with AI’s promise, Africa still faces huge climate threats. PwC warns say if nothing serious is done, physical climate damage fit reduce Africa’s economy by more than 12% by 2035.
So while AI dey promise growth, climate change fit cancel am out.
AI and Energy Use – A Balancing Act
Here’s another twist. More AI means more data, and more data means more energy—especially in data centres.
But no worry too much—PwC get one solution:
If every 1% increase in AI use leads to just a 0.1% improvement in energy efficiency, the global impact on emissions could stay neutral.
So basically, if we use AI to manage energy better, we fit balance the books.
Bottom Line for Africa?
AI is coming—and fast.
The opportunity is big, but so is the risk. If Africa plays it smart:
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Invest in education and infrastructure
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Set up strong rules and trusted systems
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Use AI not just to trade, but to solve real problems (like energy and food)
Then this wave go carry us far.
But if we slack? Na another missed opportunity—and climate change no dey smile.