Artificial intelligence could contribute as much as $1 trillion to Africa’s gross domestic product (GDP) by 2035 and create between 35 million and 40 million digital jobs, according to projections highlighted in the World Bank’s Africa Economic Update. Realising this potential, however, will depend on whether countries establish the necessary digital infrastructure, skills and policy frameworks.

The report highlights AI as a potential driver of economic transformation across the continent, offering opportunities to improve productivity, support businesses and expand access to digital services. It also stresses that the benefits will depend on how effectively African economies prepare for the technology’s growing role in the global economy.

Digital Infrastructure Is a Critical Foundation

Reliable electricity, affordable internet access and modern digital infrastructure are essential for the widespread adoption of AI. Without these foundations, businesses, schools and public institutions may struggle to access and deploy AI-powered tools.

Expanding broadband connectivity and improving electricity access could help more communities participate in the digital economy. Investment in computing capacity, secure digital systems and dependable telecommunications networks will also be important for supporting AI applications.

Reducing the cost of connectivity is particularly relevant for small businesses and entrepreneurs, who may otherwise face barriers to adopting new technologies.

Skills Development Could Unlock New Employment Opportunities

The projected creation of 35 million to 40 million digital jobs highlights the potential importance of workforce development. However, preparing workers for an AI-driven economy will require investment in education, technical training and digital literacy.

Universities, vocational institutions and employers could help workers develop skills in software development, data analysis, cybersecurity, AI system management and other technology-related fields.

AI may also change existing occupations rather than simply create entirely new ones. Workers across agriculture, healthcare, education, manufacturing and financial services may need opportunities to learn how to use AI tools effectively.

Ensuring that women, young people and underserved communities can access these opportunities will be important for making the benefits of technological progress more inclusive.

AI Could Transform Key Economic Sectors

Artificial intelligence has potential applications across several industries in Africa.

In agriculture, AI-powered tools could help farmers monitor crops, identify plant diseases and improve the use of water and other resources. In healthcare, digital systems could support medical information management and assist health professionals with certain diagnostic tasks. In education, AI-based learning tools could help personalise instruction and expand access to educational resources.

Businesses could also use AI to automate repetitive processes, improve customer services and analyse information more efficiently. These applications may help companies increase productivity and develop new products and services.

The actual economic benefits will depend on the suitability of these technologies for local conditions, their affordability and the availability of reliable data.

Policy, Investment and Responsible AI Adoption

The World Bank’s outlook points to the importance of establishing the right foundations before AI adoption expands further. Governments will need to consider data protection, cybersecurity, competition, digital infrastructure and the development of clear regulatory frameworks.

Investment from the public and private sectors will be essential, particularly in areas where infrastructure gaps limit the adoption of new technologies. Cooperation between governments, technology companies, educational institutions and development partners could help mobilise resources and strengthen local innovation ecosystems.

African countries will also need to address risks associated with AI, including inaccurate outputs, discrimination, privacy violations and the potential displacement of some workers.

Turning AI Potential Into Sustainable Growth

The prospect of adding $1 trillion to Africa’s GDP by 2035 represents a significant economic opportunity, but it remains a projection rather than a guaranteed outcome. Achieving such gains will require sustained investment, effective implementation and broad access to digital technologies.

The anticipated creation of 35 million to 40 million digital jobs similarly depends on how businesses adopt AI, how labour markets evolve and whether workers gain the skills needed for emerging opportunities.

Africa’s ability to benefit from artificial intelligence will therefore depend not only on access to advanced technology but also on the infrastructure, institutions and human capabilities needed to use it productively.