While daily headlines tend to focus on Africa’s problems, there are many reasons why this is a time to feel optimistic about the continent’s future. The rapid adoption and rollout of accessible technology, fueled by the continent’s growing middle class, is creating new opportunities for individuals to prosper.
Take artificial intelligence and automation as an example. It’s estimated that AI could boost Africa’s economy by $2.9 trillion by 2030 — the equivalent of increasing gross domestic product by 3%. This is expected to have immense positive impacts on the cost of health care, agricultural crop yields, and manufacturing efficiencies.
While the prospect of an AI and automated future is grandiose, what if Africa’s next economic catalyst was far simpler? When it comes to health and prosperity, so much starts with and comes back to the humble toilet. Improving sanitation is an untapped opportunity to empower and grow Africa’s economy that can be realized today.