Given how quickly other countries are adopting cutting-edge technology, Africa is undergoing a digital revolution. It is easier for the younger generation to learn technology now that more people have better internet access.
But the continent will continue to lag if it ignores problems like outdated legislation and poor technological infrastructure. Decision-makers and stakeholders must actively seek to close the technology gap in order to fully achieve socio-economic growth.
The top five trends that will dominate the African tech scene in 2023 are the following:
Artificial Intelligence
In 2023, an increase in the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is anticipated. AI will be used more frequently as Nigeria looks to use technology to solve issues and enhance services. It will be used more frequently in a variety of industries, including healthcare, education and agriculture. Experts predict that by 2030, AI will have increased Africa's economy by $1.15 trillion. A sound AI strategy is already in place in several African nations. In addition, programs like Data Science Nigeria now exist that promote education in AI and data science.
AI is applied in the retail industry to give customers a seamless shopping experience. Because it is an effective tool for managing business operations, it is widely used in other economic sectors. Artificial Intelligence may hold the key to treating serious medical conditions and assisting businesses on the continent in fostering a synergy between their business and IT teams.
Digital Twin Technology
A "digital twin" is a digital representation of the behavior and appearance of a real-world physical object, process, service or environment.
It is essentially a computer program that uses data from the real world to generate simulations of how a process or product will function. To improve their output, these programs can incorporate software analytics, Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things (Industry 4.0).
Everything is mirrored in the digital twin, from a single piece of machinery to entire cities and people. A steady flow of data must be established on both sides (real and digital) for such mirroring to occur.
Juniper Research projects $13 billion in digital twin revenue by 2023. African nations are prepared to take a future-first approach that will promote a level playing field thanks to digital twin technology. African businesses can lower their risks by increasing operational efficiency and using data-driven decision-making. Moreover, such technology development might just help with job creation and major city traffic solutions.
Metaverse
AR and VR technologies, which exist at the intersection of virtual and actual reality, have had a significant impact on the development of the Metaverse.
All sizes of businesses are using metaverse technology to improve their social media presence and foster customer relationships. In addition, metaverse is establishing a hybrid workplace that promotes better teamwork and makes way for an immersive storytelling experience.
The metaverse will serve as a platform for efficient remote work in addition to giving business owners the chance to become more marketing-savvy. People can meet with clients from all over the world, collaborate with team members who aren't in the same location, and train and onboard new employees thanks to the metaverse office. This would significantly lower operating and business costs, which would be especially advantageous for startups with smaller budgets.
Blockchain Technology
African blockchain startups raised $91 million in the first quarter of 2022, according to the African Blockchain Report 2021. Blockchain venture capital investment increased to $304 million during the first half of 2022, with Nigeria, Kenya and South Africa leading the way.
Because blockchain's decentralized model ensures data security, many companies have incorporated it into their operations. The founders of African blockchain startups are driven by this as a major motivator to produce cutting-edge concepts and solutions. Although blockchain adoption in Africa is still relatively slow, these startups rarely have trouble securing funding from reputable investors.
Internet of Things (IoT)
The term "Internet of Things" (IoT) describes the billions of physical objects that are currently linked to the internet and are all collecting and exchanging data. You can make anything a part of the Internet of Things, from a pill to an airplane, thanks to the development of incredibly affordable computer chips and the widespread use of wireless networks.
Businesses and individuals are expected to keep investigating this digital environment and thinking about how to take advantage of its opportunities to offer consumers immersive and effective experiences. This will give African brands new opportunities to convey original, real-life stories and much more.