Alphabet, Google's parent company, claims that generative artificial intelligence (AI) could create an additional $30 billion in value for sub-Saharan African economies, according to a study. However, the document doesn't specify how much of that value would remain in Africa.
"Our survey shows that over half (58%) of online adults strongly agree that AI could help boost growth in their country," reads the document.
The respondents, primarily from tech hubs in South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, and Kenya, led Alphabet to conclude that "82% of individuals say they use AI for research and data analysis."
Another commercial detail slipped into the report: "Thanks to tools created by Google, which allow targeted search results or online ad dissemination, SMEs have strengthened their production capacity and reached more clients or prospects."
Alphabet further emphasizes the evolution generative AI brings: "Google's research teams based in Accra and Nairobi work in synergy with their international counterparts to design AI-based solutions, aiming to bring positive changes to communities worldwide."
To better entice its target, Alphabet talks money. According to the study, based on specific methodology and research conducted in several sub-Saharan African countries, these tools generated up to $16 billion in revenue in 2023. But the question remains: who actually benefited from this windfall? In the countries where this money circulated, only a select few well-connected internet users seem to have reaped the rewards.
