How Africa can prepare for the disruptive impact of automation, robotics on the future of work

As the world grapples with the disruptive impact of automation and robotics on the future of work, the African continent is also preparing for the inevitable changes that come with technological advancements. The loss of jobs and wealth inequality due to automation are pressing concerns for many, but on the flip side, the emergence of new industries and jobs in the technology sector is seen as a potential opportunity to outweigh the economic effects of workers being displaced by automation. The World Bank predicts that AI and robotics will create about a billion new jobs by 2030, highlighting the dual nature of this transformation. James Kanyangi, Group Head of Robotic Process Automation at Technobrain, shared insights on how Africa can navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by automation and robotics. Kanyangi emphasized that while automation is indeed replacing a significant number of jobs, it is also creating new employment opportunities that were previously non-existent. He cited the example of a technology company in India employing 30,000 young people, showcasing the transformative impact of technology on job creation. One key concern raised during the interview was the potential for automation to widen income inequality gaps. Kanyangi, however, offered a different perspective, noting that tech firms, which now dominate the Fortune 500 list, have shown a tendency to hire from marginalized groups. He emphasized the need to reskill the existing workforce and prepare young people for the fourth industrial revolution, which is already underway. The interview also delved into the economic pressures that governments will face in prioritizing education and upskilling initiatives. Kanyangi stressed the importance of fixing the education system to align with market demands and investing in infrastructure like electricity and internet access to empower the workforce in leveraging the digital economy. He proposed integrating AI and robotics into traditional disciplines like medicine and architecture to future-proof professionals against technological disruptions. Looking ahead to the trends in AI and robotics for 2020 and beyond, Kanyangi highlighted the shift towards reskilling and upskilling as crucial for individuals to remain competitive in the evolving job market. With vast amounts of consumer data available, disciplines like data science and AI will play a pivotal role in driving product innovations and business strategies. Kanyangi echoed Jack Ma's vision of a future workplace that values skills over time, predicting a shift towards shorter work weeks and a focus on specialized expertise. On the cybersecurity front, Kanyangi warned that the threat of data breaches and cyberattacks will persist as tech companies amass personal data without proper consent. He foresees the need for stricter data protection laws and increased personal vigilance in safeguarding digital information to mitigate the risks of data exploitation. In conclusion, the advent of automation and robotics presents both challenges and opportunities for Africa's workforce. By proactively addressing the need for reskilling, investing in education, and enhancing cybersecurity measures, African nations can navigate the transformative impact of technology on the future of work.