African youth urged to turn AI into a driver of jobs and wealth

By The Inspirer.

Young Africans are being encouraged to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) as a tool for innovation, entrepreneurship and job creation rather than viewing it solely as a threat to employment.

The call was made during the AIESEC Alumni Middle East and Africa (MEA) Conference taking place in Kigali from August 21 to 23, 2026. The conference brings together participants from 20 countries across East Africa and the Middle East to discuss how young people can use technology to drive innovation and create economic opportunities.

Tarsila Faustine Melitta, a social entrepreneur and technology innovator from Tanzania, said African youth have an opportunity to use AI to develop solutions to pressing challenges and create new businesses.

“We are here to help the world by providing the solutions it needs through technology. At this conference, we will learn more about how to innovate through technology, create businesses as young people and explore other opportunities available to the youth,” she said.

She also stressed the importance of collaboration among young Africans as technological change accelerates.

“It is important that we come together and build unity as African youth so that we can keep pace with this speed of change and take advantage of the opportunities available,” she said.

Victor Mutembei from Kenya said young people should not be intimidated by the potential impact of AI on employment, arguing that those who learn to use the technology effectively could benefit from it.

“AI will not replace jobs; it will replace people who do not use the technology effectively,” he said.

He noted that AI can help workers conduct research and complete routine tasks more efficiently, enabling them to increase productivity and accomplish more in less time.

Mahoro Irakiza Pacifique, one of the organisers of the conference in Rwanda, said more training is needed to help young people acquire the skills required to benefit from AI.

“Training such as this is needed so that people can learn how to use AI and move with the development it is bringing. Instead of losing jobs because of AI, people should be able to gain jobs through AI,” he said.

The conference is also expected to showcase projects developed by young people using AI, giving participants an opportunity to exchange ideas and explore practical applications of the technology.

The discussions come as AI continues to reshape workplaces and business models, creating new opportunities while increasing the need for digital skills among young people seeking to build careers and businesses in Africa.