AfDB Releases G20-Backed Strategy to Accelerate AI Adoption in Africa

The study, conducted by consulting firm Bazara Tech, estimates that inclusive deployment of AI could add up to US$1 trillion to Africa’s GDP by 2035—equivalent to nearly one-third of the continent’s current economic output. This growth potential is supported by Africa’s expanding digital infrastructure, youthful and growing population, and ongoing reforms across key sectors, positioning the continent as a major frontier for AI-driven development.

According to the report, AI-driven gains are expected to be concentrated in a number of high-impact sectors rather than evenly distributed across the economy. Five priority sectors—agriculture, wholesale and retail trade, manufacturing and Industry 4.0, finance and financial inclusion, and health and life sciences—are projected to account for about 58% of total AI-related gains, or roughly US$580 billion by 2035. These sectors were identified based on their economic weight, readiness to adopt AI technologies, and strong potential to deliver inclusive outcomes.

Nicholas Williams, Manager of the ICT Operations Division at the African Development Bank, said the report identifies clear priority areas for early implementation. He noted that the Bank is prepared to mobilise investment to support these actions and called on governments and the private sector to leverage this support to drive productivity improvements and create quality jobs.

The report stresses that realising Africa’s AI potential depends on five critical and interconnected enablers: data, computing infrastructure, skills, trust, and capital. It highlights the need for reliable and interoperable data systems, scalable computing capacity, and a skilled workforce capable of developing and maintaining AI solutions. Strong governance and regulatory frameworks are also identified as essential to building trust and encouraging adoption, alongside sufficient capital to de-risk innovation and accelerate deployment.

In addition, the AfDB outlines a phased roadmap to guide Africa’s AI readiness. The proposed approach includes an ignition phase from 2025 to 2027, a consolidation phase from 2028 to 2031, and a scale phase from 2032 to 2035. These stages are designed to progressively strengthen foundations, expand adoption, and maximise impact.

Ousmane Fall, Director of Industrial and Trade Development at the Bank, emphasised the urgency of action, noting that achieving early milestones by 2026 would help set Africa’s AI growth momentum in motion. He added that the challenge for Africa is no longer identifying what needs to be done, but ensuring timely and effective implementation.