As conversations around Artificial Intelligence gain momentum in Zambia and across the world, BongoHive is playing a leading role in helping the public understand its impact, risks, and opportunities. This week, Aubrey Undi Phiri, a member of the BongoHive Data and AI team, joined Ms. Williams on Hot FM’s Radio After Six for an insightful conversation titled “Understanding AI.”

The discussion offered practical explanations, addressed common fears, and highlighted the work being done through the BongoHive AI Lab to strengthen Zambia’s digital future.

What Exactly Is AI? Breaking It Down for the Everyday Zambian

Aubrey began by explaining Artificial Intelligence in simple, relatable language:

“Artificial Intelligence is simply the combination of something man-made and the ability to think. Just like humans gather information, understand it, act on it and adapt—as in seeing dark clouds, predicting rain, carrying an umbrella, and adjusting next time—machines can do the same when we give them data.”

This everyday explanation helped demystify AI for listeners who often think of it only as robots or science fiction.

He also highlighted real-life use cases already happening in Zambia—many of which people may not realize:

• BongoHive AI Lab: Building AI chatbots for customer service, and AI-powered virtual humans used for onboarding and staff support.

• Dawa Health: Leveraging AI to support early cancer screening.

• ZamStats: Using AI models to classify labour force categories during surveys.

He added that BongoHive recently hosted an AI Show & Tell, where innovators showcased AI projects being built locally across different sectors.

AI Fears: Myth vs. Reality

Addressing fears about AI becoming “conscious” or devices “listening to us,” Aubrey acknowledged both the misconceptions and real concerns:

“The biggest global fear now is superintelligence. Countries are racing toward it for military strength, science, and economic leadership. But without strong regulation on which data can or cannot be used, that’s where danger begins.”

He emphasized that tech leaders themselves are calling for regulation—but the challenge is ensuring all major players comply.

This balanced response reassured listeners while also reinforcing the importance of national and global safety frameworks.

Will AI Replace Jobs? The Honest Answer

When asked about job loss, Aubrey was straightforward:

“Yes, AI will replace jobs—especially for people who don’t use it. The race has already started.”

Quoting Dr. Brian Halubanza of Mulungushi University, he echoed the statement that AI will replace jobs for people who ignore it.

He also highlighted Mr. Lukonga, BongoHive’s Founder, whom he described as “an AI advocate,” especially for his efforts in encouraging lecturers and students to embrace AI in learning.

He explained that AI should be viewed as a “second brain” that can enhance creativity and productivity, not simply a shortcut for copying and pasting answers.

The real risk to individuals, he added, is not AI replacing them—but their failure to adapt.

How Ordinary Zambians Can Start Using AI Today

AI is not reserved for engineers or tech specialists. Aubrey demonstrated how everyday people—students, jobseekers, entrepreneurs, and young professionals—can start benefiting immediately:

• Search for information using tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Grok.

• Improve job interview skills.

• Search for scholarships and opportunities.

• Learn practical skills, from coding to business planning.

But he cautioned that how people use AI determines whether it makes them smarter or “dull”:

“A student who copies and pastes answers will learn nothing. But a student who asks AI to help them understand will always be ahead.”

What Is Responsible AI and How Do We Stay Safe?

Responsible AI, Aubrey explained, starts with awareness and data protection:

“Many people accept terms and conditions without reading them. Remember, when a product is free, you might be the price.”

Users must understand what apps are collecting, what permissions they have granted to their devices, and whether the trade-offs are worth it.

He urged listeners to be more conscious of their digital footprints.

The Next 5–10 Years: Zambia’s Opportunities in AI

Looking ahead, Aubrey spotlighted the role of the BongoHive AI Lab in shaping Zambia’s AI landscape by:

• Building AI skills through training and capacity-building

• Supporting startups developing AI-driven solutions

• Creating platforms like the AI Show & Tell to showcase local innovation

• Providing AI development support to organisations and businesses

He noted that the biggest opportunities for AI growth in Zambia lie in:

• Agriculture – improving yields, predicting crop disease

• Health – diagnostics, patient management, screening tools

• Education – personalised learning, lecturer support tools

• Fintech – fraud detection, automation, financial inclusion

• Climate resilience – forecasting, early warning systems

He concluded by emphasizing that Zambia’s success in AI will depend on infrastructure—reliable power, high-speed internet, and strong data systems—but the foundation has already been laid through the national AI strategy.

A Conversation that Moves the Nation Forward

The interview on Hot FM’s Radio After Six was not just informative—it was a call to action. Through clear explanations and practical guidance, Aubrey Undi Phiri and BongoHive continue to lead national conversations around digital transformation, ensuring that Zambians are prepared for the future of work and innovation.