IN our previous articles, we highlighted the collaboration between James Manyika from Google and Strive Masiyiwa from Cassava Technologies, focusing on their joint efforts to introduce new technologies across Africa.
As we delve into the latest advancements in Artificial Intelligence on a global scale, we will continue to shine a light on their endeavours, particularly within the context of Zimbabwe, their mother country.
Last week, we initiated a discussion on the potential for our readers to engage with the AI wave. It seems that there is significant interest in this initiative among our audience.
We shall continue to give hints and tips in your journey of engaging with AI. I am reliably informed that ChatGPT is now available in Zimbabwe.
According to a LinkedIn post, ChatGPT, the AI chatbot developed by OpenAI, is officially accessible to Zimbabwean internet users without the need for a VPN (Virtual Private Network) — for enhancing online security, privacy, and freedom by encrypting internet traffic, hiding users' IP addresses, bypassing geo-restrictions, preventing ISP tracking.
This development is also confirmed by Daily Brand, which states that ChatGPT is readily accessible in Zimbabwe, offering exciting possibilities for individuals, businesses, and organisations across the country.
Additionally, the OpenAI Help Centre lists Zimbabwe among the supported countries and regions where ChatGPT is available on web and mobile.
Furthermore, Startupbiz reports that as of November 15, 2023, ChatGPT had officially extended its reach to Zimbabwe. As a starting point, download ChatGPT, the main player in the AI space.
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To do so, click on this link, OpenAIchatgpt. From here, you will download ‘the real McCoy’ of AI and by the way, it is free.
Some readers are already on AI after opening it from Pi, downloaded from https://pi.ai. The interesting feature of Pi is that it becomes one of your contacts on WhatsApp, and it gives you tailor-made answers to virtually all the questions you might have, ranging from religion to metaphysics and robotics, all in a flash.
ChatGPT and Pi can assume the role of Personal Assistant, who has possible solutions for practically most of your personal problems. With these AI Assistants, also referred to as virtual assistants, you can bridge the gap between humans and the technology they use, simplifying users’ routines and enhancing their productivity.
This week let us look at our current preparedness for the AI adoption in Zimbabwe. EON Reality, a global leader in XR technologies, is launching Zimbabwe's first Spatial AI Centre as part of an innovative educational initiative.
The project is part of a global campaign to explore the impact of Spatial AI on education. XR technologies, including Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR), offer immersive, interactive experiences by combining real and virtual environments.
These technologies are used in various fields like education, entertainment, healthcare, and retail. The initiative aims to enhance Zimbabwe's education and employment sectors with XR and AI-driven learning solutions.
Over 10 000 custom XR courses have been developed to address educational gaps and prepare students for the future AI-centric job market. EON Reality's XR platform transforms traditional educational content into interactive experiences, improving student engagement and knowledge retention.
The curriculum is designed to equip students with in-demand skills. The EON Course Creator tool enables swift development and deployment of customised educational programmes.
AI is used to provide deep insights into the educational ecosystem, ensuring a targeted learning strategy. The programme aims to equip Zimbabwe’s youth with skills needed for the global job market.
Additionally, the country has witnessed the launch of the Startup Huddle programme in Harare, which is expected to boost the startup scene, particularly in tech and IT, indicating a supportive environment for AI entrepreneurship.
Several companies in Zimbabwe are harnessing AI technologies to offer innovative solutions. Pygentech, Vivid Media (Pvt) Ltd, Bluebean Technologies, Tribetron Private Limited, and Kenac Computer Systems are among the top companies providing AI services in Zimbabwe.
These companies specialise in various AI-related services, including machine learning, natural language processing, cognitive computing, chatbots, robotics, and more.
The integration of AI into Zimbabwean businesses presents numerous benefits. It is pertinent that we keep tabs on the potential effects of the AI revolution on the various business sectors in Zimbabwe.
AI can revolutionise healthcare by enabling early disease detection, improving diagnostics, and enhancing patient care through the analysis of medical data.
In agriculture, AI-powered systems can optimise farming practices by analysing soil data, weather patterns, and crop characteristics, leading to increased yields and sustainable farming. In the financial sector, AI can automate processes, detect fraud, and enhance customer experiences through chatbots and AI algorithms.
In manufacturing, AI is poised to reshape manufacturing with advancements in robotics, automation, and predictive maintenance, improving production efficiency and safety.
In Human Resources Management (HRM) AI will empower HRM by optimising people management practices, from talent acquisition to employee engagement and learning and development.
In customer service, AI can improve customer experiences by providing personalised recommendations and real-time support through chatbots, potentially saving costs by reducing the need for human customer service representatives.
Despite the potential benefits, Zimbabwe faces challenges in AI adoption, such as limited access to advanced technologies, inadequate infrastructure, and a shortage of skilled AI professionals.
Addressing these challenges requires investment in research and development, capacity building programmes, and public-private partnerships.
Ethical considerations, data privacy, and maintaining human connection are also crucial aspects to consider when implementing AI in businesses.
In conclusion, as we embark on the journey of embracing Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Zimbabwe, it is essential to recognise the transformative potential it holds across various sectors.
With initiatives like the launch of Zimbabwe's first Spatial AI Centre by EON Reality and the introduction of programmes like Startup Huddle, the country is primed to leverage AI for educational advancement and entrepreneurial growth.
Companies, such as Pygentech, Vivid Media (Pvt) Ltd, Bluebean Technologies, Tribetron Private Limited, and Kenac Computer Systems are leading the charge in providing AI solutions tailored to Zimbabwean needs.
These advancements offer promising opportunities for sectors like healthcare, agriculture, finance, manufacturing, human resources management, and customer service, revolutionising traditional practices and enhancing efficiency.
However, challenges such as limited access to technology, infrastructure deficits, and a shortage of skilled professionals underscore the need for concerted efforts in research, development, and capacity building. Moreover, ethical considerations and data privacy must remain at the forefront of AI integration to ensure responsible and equitable use.
As we navigate the evolving landscape of AI adoption, it is imperative for stakeholders to remain informed, proactive, and collaborative in harnessing the full potential of AI for the benefit of Zimbabwe's economy and society.
Let us embrace the AI wave and collectively shape a future where innovation and opportunity abound.
- Bangure is an AI enthusiast and scholar. — [email protected]
