Artificial Intelligence (AI) is fast becoming the electricity of our era — a transformative general-purpose technology (GPT) reshaping industries, societies, and economies. In this session, we will explore AI's role as a GPT, focusing on its broad applicability and its foundational position within a new technology stack composed of Infrastructure, Platform, and Application layers.

We'll dive into the economic and financial architecture of AI, exploring how business models such as subscription, consumption, and advertising are evolving around it. We'll also discuss the need for innovative financial frameworks that bridge current gaps in Africa's digital economy and promote inclusive AI development.

Crucially, we’ll unpack why skilling is the catalyst for AI adoption and sustainable economic growth. This includes a call for African nations to develop National AI Talent Strategies that align with real-world needs, from education and health to agriculture and public services.

This session isn't just about presenting facts — it's about sparking collective learning, collaboration, and action. No one has all the answers—we’re all learning together to explore how Africa can move from being a consumer to a co-creator in the AI revolution.