Rising Automation in Sub-Saharan Africa: Harnessing Its Opportunities through Public Policy

Abstract

Sub-Saharan Africa has witnessed technological growth for more than a decade now. Although, it is perceived that, the exponential growth in technology still does not comprehensively address the structural challenges the continent faces. However, there is growing concern in the global scene about rising automation. The advent of such technological innovations pose threats and avail new opportunities. In this paper, technological innovations such as; artificial intelligence, robotics, additive manufacturing, industrial internet, etc. can be deployed to address certain structural imbalances, improve economic performances and solve existing and emerging security issues Africa encounters. In doing so, public policy serves as an instrument to close the existing gaps such technological innovations poses. Also, public policy through formidable public and social institutions can adapt to automation in order to encourage innovation. Moreover, there can be stringencies in making regulatory policies to discourage emerging innovations, this paper gives a road map for “permissionless innovation” to be at the heart of policymaking, to ensure these technologies serve the right purpose and can spur economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa.