Tech experts at MTN Business CTIO Africa Forum positive about AI transformative power to drive innovation and economic growth

Leading technology experts have established at this year’s MTN Business CTIO Roundtable Africa Conference that by leveraging existing legal frameworks, prioritizing ethical considerations, and equipping workers with the necessary knowledge and skills, Ghana and Africa can harness the transformative power of AI to drive innovation, economic growth, and societal progress.

Addressing this year’s theme, “Driving Business Value Through Data and AI” during a panel discussion, they believe that as businesses steer this evolving landscape, a cautious yet proactive approach is essential to ensure responsible AI deployment.

Richard Nunekpeku, a legal practitioner with Sustineri Attorneys and the Vice President of the Ghana Fintech and Payment Association, stressed the need for a measured approach to AI regulation. Rather than hastily drafting new policies, Mr. Nunekpeku called for studying and enforcing existing guidelines to ensure compliance

Mr. Nunekpeku all urged businesses to view AI as a strategic tool rather than a mere cost center, stressing the importance of legal compliance and ethical considerations in AI deployment, ensuring that businesses uphold ethical standards while leveraging AI technologies.

The Chief Digital Officer for MTN Ghana, Dario Bianchi, reiterated Nunekpeku's points by emphasizing the importance of equipping workers with knowledge about Generative AI. Generative AI as a transformative tool, Mr, Bianchi said, should be embraced by corporate organizations.

He encouraged workers to view AI as an opportunity for empowerment rather than something to fear, emphasizing its potential to enhance productivity and drive innovation.

Contributing to the discussion, the Managing Partner for The Hatchery and Coral Reef Innovation Hub, Richard Osei Anim shed light on the tensions between innovation and automation.

While acknowledging the opportunities presented by innovation, he pointed out the disruptive nature of AI on the workforce and job tasks and urged Ghanaian professionals to adapt to the changing job landscape and stay relevant in the job market amidst technological advancements.

The Co-founder and CEO of Jetstream Africa, Miishe Dede Addy also brought a unique perspective to the discussion by likening Generative AI to the transformative role of cryptocurrency in fintech.

She noted the potential of Generative AI in revolutionizing logistics but noted the scarcity of digitized data in Africa as a significant challenge hindering AI adoption.

The second edition of the MTN Business CTIO Roundtable Africa Conference provides a knowledge-sharing platform for technology leaders and academia across Africa to deliberate on key issues in technology and digital innovation. Participants at the Roundtable shared industry insights, discussed challenges, and found solutions to drive digital transformation in a globally connected world while supporting local innovation.

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye