In 2021 the London-based Lloyd's Register Foundation ran a survey that sought to assess how optimistic people around the world are about the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve their lives. The foundation polled 125,000 individuals across 121 countries and asked whether respondents believed AI would "mostly help" or "mostly harm" people over the next two decades. 

The four regions most sceptical of AI? Central and Western, Southern, Northern, and Eastern Africa, in that order. Indeed, Eastern Africa was the only region anywhere in the world in which more than half of people surveyed thought that AI is likely to be a source of danger and harm. Clear majorities in Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda were all worried that AI will prove dangerous. 

AI, which has many different applications but essentially works by using complex algorithms to analyse large datasets and make instant decisions, is awesome in its potential power. But from healthcare to agriculture, it also has the potential to transform life in Africa for the better. 

In the April issue of African Business, out now, we look at the huge opportunities awaiting Africa in artificial intelligence if the continent can overcome talent and funding shortfalls. In a special report, we speak to the entrepreneurs and researchers at the cutting edge of the industry that can - and already is - reshaping life in Africa and beyond. - David Thomas, Editor, African Business