Faith Nyasuguta
South Africa and Morocco have emerged as frontrunners in the global adoption of ChatGPT, reflecting the rising wave of AI enthusiasm across the African continent. These two nations are not just participating in the AI revolution-they’re leading it.
Nearly two years after OpenAI launched ChatGPT, a tool that has sparked the generative AI movement, the Boston Consulting Group’s CCI Global Consumer Sentiment Survey 2023 reveals that awareness of AI in these countries is remarkably high.
In both Morocco and South Africa, a striking 80% of consumers are aware of ChatGPT. But awareness is just the beginning; these nations are also among the most active users of this cutting-edge technology. According to the survey, 38% of Moroccans and 31% of South Africans who were polled are actively using ChatGPT in their daily lives.
This enthusiasm for AI isn’t a coincidence. Both South Africa and Morocco have been identified as top contenders in Africa’s race towards AI adoption. An earlier report by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) placed both countries among the top 10 in Africa most prepared for the AI era.
South Africa, with a score of 0.49 on the AI preparedness index, ranks third in Africa, while Morocco, with a score of 0.42, is not far behind, securing the seventh spot globally.
On a worldwide scale, the story is similar. The BCG survey indicates that 75% of respondents globally have used ChatGPT or another AI-driven service. However, AI usage is surprisingly higher in certain emerging markets, outpacing more established economies. India leads the pack, with 45% of its population engaging with ChatGPT– an impressive figure likely driven by the country’s large IT sector, where AI tools are becoming increasingly invaluable.
The benefits of AI are clear to consumers, who see its potential to improve various aspects of daily life. A notable 39% of respondents believe that AI positively impacts their daily routines. Excitement about AI’s role in the workplace is even higher; 60% of those surveyed anticipate that AI will enhance learning and education, while 55% expect it to increase workplace efficiency.
However, this excitement is tempered by concerns. About 33% of respondents express worries about data security and the ethical implications of AI use. Additionally, 30% fear that AI could displace workers in certain jobs, raising important questions about the future of work.
As South Africa and Morocco continue to embrace AI, their leadership in this field highlights the transformative potential of technology in shaping the future of Africa. The journey is just beginning, but the enthusiasm and innovation are already palpable.
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