Google’s new Gemini Pro artificial intelligence (AI) model will be available in South Africa first before being rolled out in other markets across Africa, according to the global tech giant, which comes as the AI is emerging as a critical tool for the continent that endeavors to unleash its full economic potential.
As searches related to AI increased 370% in the last year in South Africa and 650% over the last five years, according to Google, Gemini Advanced has now been rolled out for the South African public. A survey by the global tech giant also found that South African respondents reported that they were already seeing the impact of AI on how they access information. Another survey carried out by Google found that South African respondents reported that they were already seeing AI have an impact on how they access information, learn and work.
As the African continent endeavors to unleash its full economic potential, AI has emerged as a critical tool for empowering trade and fostering economic development, writes Ojo Emmanuel Ademola, professor of Cyber Security and Information Technology Management at Nigeria’s Royal Chartered Management Institute. “Through leveraging AI-powered technologies, Africa can streamline processes, enhance market access, and foster innovation in various industries,” Ademola says. However, he cautions that “successful integration will require concerted efforts from governments, businesses, and other stakeholders to invest in AI infrastructure and skills development, and ensure equitable access.”