Jordan’s Traffic Department has launched an AI-based monitoring system to detect mobile phone use while driving, aiming to improve road safety. The system can automatically identify phone usage positions, allowing for precise enforcement without human intervention. This initiative is designed to reduce accidents caused by distracted driving.
This article evaluates the AI readiness and opportunities in 10 African countries, highlighting strengths, challenges, and strategies to harness AI for economic growth, social development, and regional leadership. While AI adoption is varied, investments in infrastructure, governance, and human capital are critical to unlocking the continent’s AI potential.
The UN projects the global AI market will reach $4.8 trillion by 2033, but warns that 40% of jobs could be affected, with AI deepening existing inequalities. The report calls for increased international cooperation and investments in reskilling to ensure AI drives inclusive development across all nations.
Sheba’s new campaign, “The Pharaoh’s Lost Cat,” invites cat owners to discover if their pets are descendants of ancient Egyptian pharaoh cats. Using an AI tool, owners can submit photos for analysis. Cats with royal lineage will win a lifetime supply of Sheba food and be crowned in a ceremony.
Global generative AI spending is set to reach $644 billion by 2025, driven by hardware integration, with 80% of spending focused on devices like servers and smartphones. Despite high failure rates in early projects, the growth reflects AI’s increasing role in business and consumer technology, impacting all IT spending markets.
GITEX Africa 2025, held in Marrakech from April 14–16, will showcase AI’s impact on Africa’s healthcare, connectivity, and economic inclusion. The event includes the AI Everything conference and the SDG11 Challenge, focusing on AI-driven solutions for sustainable cities and communities across the continent.
Omran Sharaf, UAE’s assistant foreign minister for advanced science and technology, warned at the AI, Security, and Ethics Summit in Geneva about the risks of AI falling into the wrong hands. He stressed the importance of implementing controls and global cooperation to prevent misuse by non-state actors and militants.
The “Shaping Egypt AI Horizon” forum highlighted Egypt’s National AI Strategy (2025-2030), emphasizing AI infrastructure, talent, and regulation. ITIDA and 500 Global discussed fostering AI startups and addressing skill shortages. The strategy aims to build AI capabilities and increase AI adoption across various sectors and the workforce.
Algeria has launched three new digital platforms—cloud computing, drone technology, and a startup incubator—aimed at driving innovation, research, and entrepreneurship. The cloud platform offers high-speed processing, while the incubator will support local startups. These initiatives are part of the country’s broader digital transformation strategy to boost job creation.
Pakistan and China are exploring opportunities to launch AI and data science training programs for Pakistani students at top Chinese institutions. The collaboration aims to accelerate Pakistan’s digital transformation and strengthen ties with China in fostering technological growth and innovation in the ICT sector.
