This article was produced with the support of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA)
Distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen,
On behalf of the United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa, Claver Gatete, it is a pleasure to welcome participants to this meeting of the Committee of Experts.
The theme of this year’s conference, Growth through innovation: harnessing data and frontier technologies for economic transformation in Africa, is both timely and urgent. It offers an important opportunity to examine how data and emerging technologies can accelerate structural transformation and deliver sustainable, innovation-led growth across the continent.
Africa’s economic performance over the past two decades presents a mixed picture. Between 2000 and 2023, GDP growth averaged 3.5%, yet this expansion has not translated into significant productivity gains. Growth has been driven largely by the accumulation of capital and labour, while total factor productivity, which reflects efficiency, technological progress and institutional quality, has made only a limited contribution.
This raises a fundamental question: how can Africa better harness frontier technologies to unlock the potential of its natural resources, youthful population and expanding markets?
Frontier technologies offer a pathway to address this challenge. When embedded within supportive policy and regulatory frameworks, backed by adequate financing and informed by robust data systems, they can enhance productivity, drive diversification and accelerate the shift of resources towards higher-value sectors. In doing so, they can improve living standards and strengthen the foundations for long-term competitiveness.
Yet Africa’s adoption of these technologies remains uneven and lags behind other regions. Artificial intelligence, for example, is projected to contribute 5.6% to GDP across Africa, Oceania and developing Asia by 2030. This compares with 14.5% in North America and over 10% in both Europe and developed Asia. Similarly, Africa’s Internet of Things market is expected to grow from $7bn in 2024 to over $20bn by 2031, but this will still represent less than 1% of the global market. The continent’s biotechnology sector, while expanding, is also set to remain a small fraction of the global industry.
Despite this gap, the opportunities are vast. Digital platforms powered by technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain and the Internet of Things are already reshaping African economies. Mobile money and digital payment systems are reducing transaction costs, expanding financial inclusion and improving access to markets.
Africa also holds nearly 30% of the world’s critical minerals required for clean energy technologies, positioning the continent as a key player in global value chains linked to the green and digital transitions. These resources underpin sectors ranging from telecommunications to advanced manufacturing, offering a strategic advantage that few regions can match.
In agriculture, frontier technologies are beginning to deliver tangible results. Drought-resistant maize varieties in East Africa are achieving significantly higher yields under adverse conditions while using less water. In South Africa, satellite imagery is helping farmers detect water stress early and optimise irrigation. These innovations highlight the transformative potential of technology in boosting productivity and strengthening climate resilience.
Africa’s demographic profile provides an additional advantage. With a median age of just 19, the continent has the youngest population in the world. Young people are typically more adaptable and more likely to adopt new technologies, creating both a dynamic workforce and a rapidly expanding digital market.
Globally, technological change is expected to create a net gain of 78 million jobs by 2030, even as automation displaces others. For Africa to benefit, investment in digital skills and education will be critical. Without it, the continent risks being excluded from emerging opportunities in the global labour market.
To fully realise the potential of frontier technologies, decisive policy action is required. Strong national leadership will be essential to design and implement coherent strategies, mobilise resources and attract investment. Governments must also ensure that smaller businesses and informal enterprises are not left behind, by providing access to funding, training and innovation ecosystems.
Addressing infrastructure gaps is equally urgent. Africa currently hosts less than 1% of global data centres, limiting its ability to participate fully in the digital economy. Expanding energy capacity and digital infrastructure will be key to supporting data-driven innovation and advancing data sovereignty.
These technologies also have a critical role to play in advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area. Digital trade platforms, interoperable payment systems and e-commerce solutions can reduce transaction costs, increase transparency and facilitate cross-border trade. Initiatives such as the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System are already demonstrating how technology can make intra-African trade faster and more efficient.
However, the adoption of frontier technologies is not without risks. Much of Africa’s data is currently stored outside of the continent, raising concerns about cost, security and sovereignty. Weak regulatory frameworks, limited institutional capacity and gaps in cybersecurity further complicate the landscape.
Dependence on imported technologies also exposes African economies to external shocks and limits opportunities for local value addition. At the same time, labour market disruptions caused by automation could exacerbate unemployment and inequality if not carefully managed.
These challenges underline the importance of the conference theme, which also informs the forthcoming Economic Report on Africa 2026. The report examines how innovation drives productivity, explores the opportunities and risks associated with frontier technologies, and outlines practical actions for policymakers.
As delegates consider the task ahead, the need for bold and creative thinking is clear. Africa stands at a critical juncture. With the right strategies, investments and partnerships, frontier technologies can serve as a powerful engine for transformation. Without them, the continent risks falling further behind in an increasingly digital global economy.
Thank you for your kind attention.