The theme for this year’s World Economic Forum (WEF 2025) in Davos was ‘Collaboration for the Intelligent Age.’ The framers of this theme amplify the need for global cooperation to help steer toward a positive outcome in a time of rapid technological advances. WEF serves as a platform where pivotal issues that will shape our future are discussed. Leaders from various sectors, including business, politics, academia, and civil society, converge to deliberate on strategies and initiatives that address the pressing challenges of our time, from climate change to economic inequality. This convergence of diverse perspectives fosters innovative solutions and collaborative efforts that aim to create a more inclusive and sustainable global future.
The broad areas of discussion included rebuilding trust, reimagining growth, safeguarding the planet, industries in the intelligent age, and investing in people. Each of these areas is underpinned by the role of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI). In virtually all the sessions, the role of AI’s use and regulation dominated side discussions. President Trump’s virtual presentation, where he scrutinized the regulatory regimes of the European Union, ignited a heated debate. Participants fiercely argued the balance between innovation and regulation, with proponents of strict oversight emphasizing the need for ethical standards and opponents cautioning against stifling technological progress. The dialogue highlighted the complex and often contentious nature of governing rapidly advancing technologies, reflecting broader concerns about sovereignty, competitiveness, and the equitable distribution of AI’s benefits and risks.
In sessions where I participated as a panelist, I likened the debate to a football team that often consists of strikers (innovators) and defenders (regulators). Each of these two groups must do their part to ensure success concurrently. If defenders do the strategy by themselves before the match, they will hinder the strikers’ tactics. The work of these two groups must be done in tandem. Nonetheless, the strikers must be given the necessary latitude since when they score, we all win. And of course, defense sometimes scores. In the absence of such a collaborative effort, we lose direction.
In addition, as in football, we must take lessons from those who consistently win. This analogy resonated with many participants, emphasizing the importance of balancing innovation with regulation in a way that promotes progress while safeguarding ethical standards. By drawing on successful models and best practices from other sectors, we can navigate the complexities of the intelligent age more effectively. The discussions at WEF 2025 underscored that achieving a harmonious balance between innovation and regulation requires ongoing dialogue, shared understanding, and a willingness to adapt. As technology continues to evolve, the collaborative efforts of diverse stakeholders will be crucial in shaping a future that is both innovative and inclusive.
Ignoring advances in AI due to a lack of regulation will be detrimental to any entity. In today’s environment, AI serves as a competitive tool, essential for maintaining and enhancing a position in the global market. The rapid pace of technological advancement means that those who hesitate or fail to integrate AI into their operations risk falling behind. This sentiment was echoed repeatedly during the WEF 2025 sessions, where experts emphasized that AI’s transformative potential could not be overlooked. Technology presents opportunities for efficiency, innovation, and growth that are too significant to ignore.
Stakeholders must therefore prioritize finding balanced approaches to regulation that do not impede progress. With AI driving the next wave of industrial revolution, the stakes are high, and the cost of inaction could be substantial. Companies and countries that leverage AI effectively are likely to lead in productivity and innovation, setting benchmarks that others will need to follow. Thus, fostering an environment where AI can thrive while addressing ethical and societal concerns is critical for future competitiveness and success.
Africa must see the advent of emerging technologies as God sent to emancipate the continent. With its population dividend, the continent is poised to play a significant role globally. Embracing technologies such as AI, blockchain, and renewable energy can propel Africa into a new era of development and prosperity. By leveraging its youthful and dynamic workforce, Africa can become a hub of innovation, driving economic growth and improving the quality of life for its people.
Harnessing the power of these technologies requires investment in education and infrastructure, as well as supportive policies that encourage entrepreneurship and innovation. Partnerships with global tech leaders and fostering local talent will be critical in building a robust ecosystem that can sustain technological advancements. Moreover, the continent’s unique challenges and opportunities provide a fertile ground for developing tailored solutions that can be scaled globally.
In this context, Africa’s approach to technology must be strategic and inclusive, ensuring that benefits are broadly shared and that potential risks are mitigated. By prioritizing digital literacy and creating an enabling environment for tech startups, Africa can capitalize on its demographic advantages and drive sustainable development. The continent’s youthful population, coupled with strategic investments in technology, positions Africa to not only catch up with but also leapfrog traditional developmental stages, setting new benchmarks for growth and innovation on the global stage.
As the world moves into the intelligent age, Africa’s active participation in shaping the future of technology is not just an opportunity but an imperative. The continent’s vast resources, both human and natural, make it an essential player in the global technological landscape. It is time for Africa to embrace and integrate emerging technologies, to redefine its trajectory, making significant strides towards economic empowerment and global influence.
