The demand for artificial intelligence (AI) computing power is surging globally,driven by a growing appetite for AI-powered applications across industries. this trend is especially evident in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa, where cloud computing is emerging as a key enabler for unlocking the potential of AI.
“The demand for AI computing power is increasing rapidly,” said a recent report. “This is being driven by the growing adoption of AI across a wide range of industries, from healthcare and finance to manufacturing and retail.”
Cloud computing is playing a crucial role in making AI more accessible and affordable. By providing on-demand access to powerful computing resources,cloud platforms are enabling businesses of all sizes to leverage AI without the need for notable upfront investments in hardware and infrastructure.
“Cloud computing is unlocking the potential of AI in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa,” stated another expert. “It is providing businesses with the tools they need to innovate and compete in the global economy.”
The benefits of AI are far-reaching, with the potential to transform industries and improve lives. From personalized healthcare and precision agriculture to fraud detection and customer service automation, AI is poised to revolutionize the way we live and work.
As the demand for AI continues to grow, cloud computing will play an increasingly important role in making this transformative technology accessible to all.
Huawei has highlighted the global shortage of artificial intelligence (AI) talent as a significant obstacle to worldwide digital advancement. the tech giant emphasized this challenge during a recent discussion on the future of AI.
“The scarcity of AI talent is a major bottleneck for the advancement and deployment of AI solutions globally,” a Huawei representative stated. “This shortage is hindering innovation and slowing down the pace of digital transformation across industries.”
Huawei’s concerns echo a growing sentiment within the tech industry. As AI becomes increasingly integral to various sectors, the demand for skilled professionals who can develop, implement, and manage AI systems continues to surge.
The lack of qualified AI talent is not only impacting technological progress but also posing challenges for businesses seeking to leverage AI for competitive advantage.
Addressing this talent gap requires a multi-pronged approach, including investments in education and training programs, fostering collaborations between academia and industry, and promoting initiatives that encourage diversity and inclusion in the AI field.
Huawei, known for its advancements in AI research and development, is actively working to bridge the talent gap through various initiatives. The company is committed to nurturing the next generation of AI experts and contributing to the growth of a thriving AI ecosystem.
## Unlocking AfricaS AI Potential: A Conversation with dr. Amina Usman
**World Today News:** The global demand for AI computing power is skyrocketing, with Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa experiencing a particularly strong surge. Dr. Amina Usman, a leading expert in AI and cloud computing with the Nigerian Institute of Technology and Innovation, joins us today to shed light on this trend and its implications for the region. Dr. Usman, welcome.
**Dr. Usman**: Thank you for having me. I’m excited to discuss this important topic.
**World Today News:** Let’s start with the basics. Can you explain why the demand for AI computing power is increasing so rapidly, especially in Africa?
**Dr. Usman**: Several factors are driving this surge. Firstly, ther’s a growing realization of AI’s transformative potential across industries. Businesses are increasingly adopting AI-powered solutions for automating tasks,improving efficiency,and gaining valuable insights from data.This demand translates directly into a need for powerful computing resources to train and run these AI models.
**World Today News:** And how is cloud computing playing a role in making AI more accessible in Africa?
**Dr. Usman**: cloud computing is truly a game-changer. It provides access to vast pools of computing power on demand, eliminating the need for businesses to invest heavily in expensive hardware infrastructure.This is particularly crucial for Africa, where access to capital and technical expertise can be limited. Cloud platforms democratize AI by making it accessible to startups, SMEs, and research institutions that wouldn’t otherwise have the resources.
**world Today News:** What are some specific examples of how AI is being leveraged in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa?
**Dr. Usman**: We’re seeing exciting applications emerge across various sectors. In healthcare,AI is being used for diagnosing diseases,analyzing medical images,and personalizing treatment plans. In agriculture, AI-powered systems are helping farmers optimize crop yields, monitor soil health, and manage pests. In finance, AI algorithms are being used for credit scoring, fraud detection, and personalized financial advice.the possibilities are truly vast.
**world Today News:** What are some of the challenges that need to be addressed to fully unlock AI’s potential in Africa?
**Dr. Usman**: While the opportunities are immense, challenges remain. We need to address the digital divide by expanding internet access and improving digital literacy. We also need to focus on developing local AI talent through education and training programs.moreover, ethical considerations surrounding data privacy and algorithmic bias must be carefully considered as AI becomes more prevalent.
**World Today news:** what is your outlook for the future of AI in Africa?
**Dr. Usman**: I’m incredibly optimistic. Africa has the potential to become a global leader in AI innovation. With continued investment in infrastructure, talent advancement, and ethical frameworks, I believe AI can play a transformative role in driving economic growth, improving lives, and addressing some of the continent’s most pressing challenges.
**world Today News:** Thank you, Dr. Usman, for sharing your valuable insights.