Elsie Kanza on readying Africa for the fourth industrial revolution

As the world progresses towards the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the readiness of Africa to embrace this shift has been a topic of discussion. Elsie Kanza, Head of Africa & Member Executive Committee at WEF, shed light on this crucial issue in an interview with CNBC Africa's Chris Bishop at #SA4IRPotential in Sandton. Kanza expressed her growing confidence in Africa's understanding and adoption of the fourth industrial revolution, signaling a positive shift from previous perceptions. During the discussion, key themes such as the importance of industrialization for job creation, the role of human capital in driving future production, and the need for inclusive dialogue on the implications of new technologies were highlighted. Let's delve deeper into the key points addressed in the interview: 1. **Progress in Africa's Perception of the Fourth Industrial Revolution:** Kanza noted that there has been a notable improvement in how Africa is embracing the realities of the fourth industrial revolution. While there were concerns about lagging behind at previous events like Davos, the current discussions in Africa indicate a more optimistic outlook towards leveraging new technologies for economic growth and development. The focus has shifted towards understanding the potential impact of these advancements and the opportunities they present for innovation and progress. 2. **Challenges in Ensuring Inclusivity and Ethical Practices:** One of the key challenges identified by Kanza is the need to ensure that all stakeholders, including those at the grassroots level, are included in conversations about the fourth industrial revolution. She highlighted the importance of raising awareness and aligning common interests to drive meaningful change. Additionally, the ethical considerations surrounding the use of new technologies and the impact on the workforce were emphasized. As jobs transition to automation, the necessity for retraining and upskilling workers becomes paramount, requiring significant financial investments. The role of institutions such as the African Union and the European Union in providing funding and support for education and skills development was underscored. 3. **Investment in Education and Innovation:** While progress has been made in certain areas, concerns remain regarding the level of investment in education and training programs to prepare the workforce for the future. Kanza mentioned the need for innovative financing mechanisms and impact investment vehicles to bridge the gap and ensure that individuals are equipped with the necessary skills for the evolving job market. Initiatives like the Skills for the Future initiative in South Africa and the development of African-designed satellites showcase the continent's potential for growth in science, technology, and innovation. However, a more concerted effort is required to scale up these efforts and address the changing landscape of work. In conclusion, the interview with Elsie Kanza provides valuable insights into Africa's evolving stance on the fourth industrial revolution. While progress has been made, there are still challenges to overcome in terms of inclusivity, ethical considerations, and education investment. The upcoming World Economic Forum on Africa in Cape Town in September promises to be a platform for further discussions and actions to propel Africa towards a more sustainable and technology-driven future.