MBABANE-(MaraviPost)-Malawian International Relations and Development Studies expert, Mphatso Kampeni, says Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to transform Africa’s economies and education systems if adopted responsibly and strategically.

In an interview with Maravi Post, Kampeni who is based in the Kingdom of Eswatini, recently graduated from the University of Eswatini as a Generative AI for Educators Practitioner.

He described his achievement as a major milestone, noting that AI is set to revolutionise the way various sectors operate across the African continent.

“I feel greatly accomplished knowing that AI is here to revolutionise the way we work in different sectors of our African economies,” said kampeni.

Why AI Matters for Africa

According to Kampeni, AI is reshaping global economies and education systems, and Africa stands to benefit significantly from its adoption.

He outlined several key areas where AI can drive development on the continent.

Economic Development

Kampeni explained that AI-powered automation can increase productivity in agriculture, manufacturing, and services by optimising inputs, predicting equipment failures, and supporting smart supply-chain management.

He pointed to AI-based crop-monitoring applications that are helping small-scale farmers improve yields while reducing water and fertiliser use.

Kampeni added that although some traditional jobs may be replaced, AI is creating new industries in fields such as data annotation, fintech, renewable-energy management, and health-tech diagnostics, ultimately generating new high-skill employment opportunities.

He further noted that machine-learning models using alternative data sources such as satellite imagery and mobile-money transactions are helping financial institutions assess creditworthiness for underserved populations, thereby improving access to loans for farmers and small-scale entrepreneurs.

Said kampeni:”In addition,AI is enhancing the management of key resources by improving the delivery of electricity, water, and transport services.

“Predictive maintenance of off-grid solar systems, for instance, reduces downtime and ensures more reliable access to clean energy.”

Education

In the education sector, Kampeni highlighted the potential of AI to support personalised learning.

He said adaptive learning tools can analyse each student’s progress and adjust content instantly, helping learners in overcrowded or remote classrooms stay on track.

He also emphasised that AI can ease teachers’ workloads by automating tasks such as grading and feedback generation, giving educators more time to mentor students and encourage critical thinking.

Kampeni also discussed the role of natural-language processing in expanding access to learning materials.

He said:”These tools can rapidly translate educational content into local languages, promoting inclusivity and improving comprehension.”

He added that by analysing enrolment, attendance, and performance data, education ministries can make more informed decisions, identify problem areas quickly, and allocate resources more effectively.

Challenges to Address

Kampeni cautioned that Africa must overcome several obstacles to fully benefit from AI.

He stressed that reliable electricity and internet connectivity remain limited in many rural areas and that significant investment in digital infrastructure is needed.

He also pointed out that there is a considerable shortage of AI experts and data scientists across the continent, making capacity-building crucial.

Kampeni further noted that strong privacy regulations and accurate, representative datasets are essential to ensure responsible AI use.

Additionally, he warned that without deliberate planning, AI could deepen inequalities by benefiting urban populations more than those in remote communities.

Looking Ahead

Kampeni expressed optimism that, with coordinated action among governments, the private sector, academia, and international partners, AI can accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals.

He expressed hope that when properly integrated, AI can improve health outcomes, enhance agricultural productivity, expand financial services, and deliver quality education to millions of Africans.

He emphasised that success will depend on building digital infrastructure, developing local expertise, and establishing regulatory frameworks that protect citizens while supporting innovation.

The Maravi Post