The former Vice President of the Republic of Ghana and Flagbearer of the NPP, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has emphasised that artificial intelligence has the potential to unite Africa beyond borders — if the continent builds capacity and connects its systems effectively.
Delivering his keynote address at the London School of Economics Africa Summit 2026, under the theme “Artificial Intelligence and Unifying Borders in Africa,” Dr. Bawumia noted that Africa missed the first industrial revolution, which marked the transition from manual small-scale production to mechanised systems in agriculture and manufacturing such as textiles.
He stressed that history teaches a vital lesson:
technological revolutions reward those who prepare.
According to him, Africa must prioritise building:
Strong institutions
Critical infrastructure
Digital skills
Effective regulatory frameworks
before chasing advanced applications of artificial intelligence.
Dr.Bawumia speaking at the event
Dr. Bawumia further emphasised that Africa must position itself not as a passive consumer but as a builder of responsible, innovative systems capable of driving development and integration across the continent.
He was accompanied by key Ghanaian leaders, including Hon. Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, Hon. Frank Annor Dompreh, Dr. DaCosta Aboagye and former Second Lady Hajia Samira Bawumia, all demonstrating a collective commitment to shaping Africa’s role in the global AI space.
In a related development, former Chief Executive of the National Health Insurance Authority, Dr. DaCosta Aboagye, praised Dr. Bawumia for his significant contributions to digitalisation and the modernisation of Ghana’s systems during his tenure as vice president.
He noted that these efforts have laid a strong foundation for Ghana’s readiness in embracing emerging technologies like AI.
The message was clear and compelling:
Africa’s future in artificial intelligence depends on preparation, collaboration, and strategic investment.
Report by Thomas Oheneba Boakye,London.UK
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