Mwelekeo TV recently hosted an important discussion on how Artificial Intelligence is changing lives and what it means for Africa’s future.
During the conversation, Soita Wafula spoke with host Mercy Otieno about the growing impact of AI and why African countries must act quickly to avoid being left behind. He explained that AI is no longer a future idea because it is already shaping jobs, businesses, education, and daily life across the world.
Soita said AI has moved faster than many people expected. In a short time, it has created more billionaires than social media managed to create over many years.
This shows how powerful the technology has become. However, for Africa, the biggest question is not just about watching this growth happen elsewhere. The real issue is whether the continent can become part of this new wave by building solutions instead of only consuming products made in other countries.
Many people fear that AI will take away jobs and leave millions unemployed. According to Soita, that fear is not entirely correct.
He said AI itself will not simply replace people. Instead, the real danger is that people who fail to learn and use AI may be replaced by others who know how to use it better. This means the focus should not be on fear but on learning. AI should be seen as a tool that helps people work faster, solve problems, and create better results.
He also pointed out that Africa has for many years depended heavily on imported goods and technologies. From food to machines and software, many countries still rely on outside solutions.
He believes AI can help change this if it is used in the right way. In farming, for example, AI can improve production by helping farmers understand weather patterns, crop health, and market demand. In manufacturing, it can improve efficiency. In education, it can make learning more effective and personalized.
The discussion also focused strongly on education systems across Africa. Soita explained that many schools still train students mainly to pass exams and follow instructions.
He argued that this approach must change. Schools and universities should help young people discover their talents, think creatively, and solve real-life problems. Teachers and institutions must also become more comfortable using AI so they can guide students properly.
Kenya has already shown strong interest in AI tools like ChatGPT, with many young people using such platforms for learning and business ideas.
This is a good sign, but Soita said using AI is only the first step. The bigger goal should be creating with AI. Young people should move from being users to becoming builders of products, services, and businesses that solve local problems.
He also challenged the common belief that Africa’s biggest issue is unemployment alone. He said the deeper problem is low value creation. Many young people may have jobs, but they still earn little and struggle financially.
AI can help improve this by supporting entrepreneurship. With digital tools, young people do not always need large factories or huge investments. Their ideas, creativity, and skills can become powerful businesses that serve many people.
Adaptability was another key lesson in the discussion. Soita gave the example of tractors in farming. When tractors were introduced, some feared jobs would disappear. Instead, new opportunities came for drivers, mechanics, and technicians. AI can work the same way. It may change how jobs are done, but it can also create new industries and careers for those ready to adapt.
Governments were also called upon to play their part. Strong policies are needed on AI, education, energy supply, and data protection. Reliable electricity and support for data centers are necessary if countries want to grow in this space.
Some nations like China have already moved quickly by introducing AI learning in schools. African governments must think ahead and support local innovation before it is too late.
Africa has one of the youngest populations in the world, and that is a major advantage. With the right skills, better education, and strong leadership, young people can use AI to create solutions for agriculture, health, business, and many other sectors.
Mwelekeo TV continues to provide an important platform for such conversations by bringing experts and leaders together to discuss practical ideas that matter to ordinary people.
Through these discussions, viewers are not only informed but also challenged to think about how they can take part in shaping Africa’s future in the age of AI.
