Bank Windhoek Explores AI’s Transformative Role in Africa’s Future

Bank Windhoek’s Annual Stakeholder Engagement Session emphasized the critical role of artificial intelligence in Africa’s future. Managing Director Baronice Hans highlighted AI’s potential to drive sovereignty and sustainable growth. Keynote speaker Seydina Moussa Ndiaye affirmed the need for Africa to produce AI, while Ryan Geyser stressed collaboration for an inclusive AI-driven future. The session aimed to reinforce Bank Windhoek’s commitment to being Connectors of Positive Change.

Bank Windhoek recently convened its Annual Stakeholder Engagement Session at the Hilton Hotel in Windhoek, focusing on the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) across Africa. The discussion centered on how AI is reshaping various industries and addressing crucial decisions impacting the continent’s future. Bank Windhoek’s Managing Director, Baronice Hans, emphasized the necessity for Africa to strategically utilize AI to promote sovereignty, innovation, and sustainable development.

During her remarks, Hans noted, “Africa stands at the crossroads of this revolution. The decisions we make today will echo for generations to come. We must not simply adopt AI but shape, define, and ensure that it serves our people, economies, and aspirations.” She pledged that Bank Windhoek plans to develop AI-driven solutions that uphold its core values, while safeguarding data privacy and enhancing access to financial services.

The keynote address was delivered by Seydina Moussa Ndiaye, Programme Director at the University of Numerique in Senegal and a member of the United Nations Secretary General’s High-Level Advisory Body on AI. He asserted that AI, present since 1948, requires Africa to shift from a consumer to a producer role in this domain and emphasized data as fundamental to this transition.

Ndiaye remarked, “When AI is built with local data and is uniquely tailored to the African context, including culture and way of thinking, AI can solve African problems across various sectors.” Furthermore, he stressed the importance of ethical AI adoption within the banking sector to maintain trust and competitiveness amidst swift AI advancements.

Ryan Geyser, the Digital Data and Customer Transformation Executive Officer at Bank Windhoek, underscored the urgency of embracing AI in shaping Africa’s future. He stated, “We must continue to collaborate, learn, and take decisive action to shape our AI-driven future that is inclusive, ethical, and beneficial to all.” His conclusion highlighted the potential of AI in addressing Africa’s challenges amid a dynamic geopolitical environment.

The Annual Stakeholder Engagement Session serves as a platform for Bank Windhoek to engage with its customers on significant topics. The bank aspires to reinforce its role as Connectors of Positive Change, and to collaborate with customers to create value for their businesses and the wider community.

In conclusion, the discussions at Bank Windhoek’s Annual Stakeholder Engagement Session illuminate the pivotal role of artificial intelligence in shaping Africa’s development. Key stakeholders highlighted the importance of locally-driven AI solutions that prioritize ethical considerations and align with African values. With leaders advocating for collaboration and strategic application of AI, there is a unified vision for leveraging technology to empower the continent’s future and ensure sustained growth and innovation.

Original Source: economist.com.na