Africa's Technology Futures: Three Scenarios

This report explores three potential scenarios for the future of technology in Sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on the creation, ownership, and adaptation of technology within the region.

(Generated with the help of GPT-4)

Quick Facts
Report location: source
Language: English
Publisher:

Boston University - The Frederick S. Pardee Center For The Study Of The Longer-Range Future

Authors: Dirk Swart
Geographic focus: Africa

Methods

The research method involves scenario planning, analyzing a set of driving forces, effects, and change triggers that influence technology in Africa, and presenting three feasible futures based on this analysis.

(Generated with the help of GPT-4)

Key Insights

The report examines the potential for Sub-Saharan Africa to effectively create, own, and harness homegrown technology, as well as adapt non-African technologies into innovation cycles. It identifies key drivers affecting technology in Africa, such as demographics, governance, and globalization, and presents three scenarios: “Use, don't own,” “Pockets of innovation,” and “Leapfrogging.” The current state is used as a baseline, highlighting the risks of assuming Africa will follow the West's technological trajectory. The analysis suggests enhancing market capabilities, improving governance, and constructive external intervention are necessary for desirable outcomes.

(Generated with the help of GPT-4)

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