Introduction
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a scope within the computer science practice that is based on developing systems that can mimic or replicate human natural intelligence for the capability of resolving problems. This process occurs through the collection of data, processing this data and studying the past records for the purpose of improving and predicting the future occurrences.
Brief History of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Though it might appear like Artificial Intelligence got introduced to the world in recent times. However, a couple of years ago, the journey of the introduction of AI kick started by few scientists.
In 1950, a computer scientist, Alan Turing published “Computer Machinery and Intelligence” which was proposed as a test of machine intelligence called- The Imitation Game. In 1952, the scientist, Arthur Samuel developed a program to play checkers. In 1955, John McCarthy hosted a workshop at Dartmouth on ‘Artificial Intelligence’ which made it the first time ever the word came into usage and gained its popularity.
Relatable African Proverbs to Back up AI technology
There’s a popular saying somewhere in the Africa, the motherland, where it goes thus:
“Make hay, while the sun is still shining” This popular saying is usually a call to take swift action as soon as one can to resolve issues, while it’s still at an early stage to prevent a danger that lies ahead. The introduction and acceptance of AI is a way to prepare ahead for the future. The predictions with AI will help the African government and people work hard into preventing future failures in her system and practices for better governance and also for operating in with a developed system.
Another popular proverb is: “One do not chase a black goat at the dead of the night” This simply means that it’s a complete waste of time and resources to resolving issues or making plans at a later time. The time to plan is now! The earlier; the better. Procrastination delays progress.
How AI Can Help Harness Peace in Africa
Artificial intelligence has proven to be able to predict and resolve conflicts that are likely to cause uproar of unrest, anarchy, wars and famine. With the use of AI technology, various nations in Africa can determine when there’s a conflict arising, can engage in a peaceful dialogue as well as prevent future occurrences of any war bells from ringing and war drums from beating.
Pros and Cons of AI Technology in Africa
There are usually the positive sides and negative sides that influence AI technology in Africa.
The Positives
- It’s used for weather forecasts and studying of climate change.
- It’s used for health applications and supplies.
- It’s used for planning and executing improved agricultural practices.
The Negatives
- There’s a lack of relevant technical skills of young people available in Africa.
- There are limited funds available for researches and also innovations for AI Technology.
- A rise in the displacement of jobs as well as workers in the IT field is bound to occur.
Conclusion
The introduction and acceptance of the AI Technology is a good welcome development for Africans. African start up organizations have begun to embrace abs accept the AI Technology, so when it gets embraced by African leaders and well – utilized it would resolve so many pending issues that affects the government, the economy, the health sector and the agriculture sector which are the major sectors that affects the growth and development of nations in Africa.