In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become more than just a buzzword; it is the cornerstone of innovation, reshaping industries and redefining the way we interact with technology. As AI continues to permeate various sectors globally, its potential to drive significant change in emerging markets like Zambia is becoming increasingly apparent. Leading this transformation in Zambia is BongoHive’s Innovation Unit, which played a pivotal role during the recent TEDxLusaka AI Series.

BongoHive has long been recognized as Zambia’s premier innovation and technology hub, consistently pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the digital space. Our involvement in the TEDxLusaka AI Series was a natural extension of our mission to empower Zambians. through technology. By taking the lead in this series, we aimed to create a platform where diverse voices could come together to explore the opportunities and challenges presented by AI, ensuring that Zambia is not just a consumer of AI technologies but an active participant in their development and implementation.

One of the highlights of our contribution to the TEDxLusaka AI Series was the hosting of five in-person workshops at the Hive Co-Working Space. These workshops were meticulously designed to address the unique needs and opportunities within specific sectors—law, Health, Education, Agriculture, and Business. Each workshop served as a focused forum for thought leaders, professionals, and innovators to engage in deep discussions about how AI can be leveraged to solve sector-specific challenges and drive growth.

The Law workshop, for example, explored how AI could revolutionise legal practices in Zambia, from automating routine tasks to enhancing the accuracy of legal research. Participants discussed the ethical implications of AI in law, including concerns about data privacy and the potential for bias in AI algorithms. The Health workshop delved into AI’s potential to improve healthcare delivery, from predictive diagnostics to personalised treatment plans. Here, the conversation also touched on the importance of ensuring that AI-driven healthcare solutions are accessible to all Zambians, regardless of their socio-economic status.

In the Education workshop, participants examined how AI could transform the way we teach and learn, from personalised learning experiences to AI-driven tools that support teachers in the classroom. The Agriculture workshop focused on how AI can boost agricultural productivity, from precision farming techniques to AI-driven supply chain management systems. Finally, the Business workshop looked at how AI can drive innovation and efficiency. in Zambian businesses, from automating routine tasks to enabling data-driven decision-making.

What made these workshops truly impactful was the diversity of perspectives represented. By bringing together stakeholders from various fields, BongoHive facilitated a comprehensive dialogue that addressed both the potential benefits and the challenges of AI in Zambia. The discussions were rich with insights, highlighting the need for a balanced approach that considers the ethical, social, and economic implications of AI adoption.

Beyond the workshops, BongoHive’s Innovation Unit played a pivotal role in documenting the insights generated during these sessions. We produced a comprehensive summary report that encapsulates the key takeaways and recommendations, providing a valuable resource for stakeholders keen on navigating the AI landscape in Zambia. This report goes beyond merely summarising the discussions; it serves as a strategic guide, outlining actionable steps for leveraging AI to drive innovation and growth in Zambia. The report will be presented during a webinar that will be open to all interested parties.

As we look to the future, BongoHive remains dedicated to empowering Zambians to harness the power of AI. The TEDxLusaka AI Series was just the beginning of our efforts to position Zambia as a leader in AI innovation. With the momentum generated from these workshops, we are excited to continue exploring new frontiers in AI, driving positive change, and ensuring that Zambia is well-positioned to thrive in the digital age.