Archive · 14 Sep 2025
AI Divide: Can Developing Nations Benefit?
AI is changing the world, but it could leave some countries behind.
Developing nations, especially in Africa and South America, are trying to use AI to help their people.
The African Union has a big plan to use AI for things like healthcare and farming.
These countries are investing in AI to boost their economies.
Some places, like Chile and Brazil, are building their own AI systems instead of relying on others.
Companies are already using AI to help farmers in Africa increase their income.
However, the US and China have most of the AI power, making it important for other countries to catch up.
AI has the potential to add trillions to economies, but developing nations risk falling behind.
Africa and South America are implementing AI strategies and seeking regional cooperation.
Agriculture is an example of how AI can improve incomes and productivity in developing countries.
Funding disparities are a significant barrier, with the U.S. and China dominating AI investment.
Digital colonialism is a risk, with developing nations becoming consumers of AI created elsewhere.
- Who
- Developing nations (particularly in Africa and South America), tech companies, and international organizations.
- What
- The potential of AI to either bridge or widen global development gaps.
- When
- Currently, with significant strategies and investments occurring in 2023-2024, and ongoing.
- Where
- Globally, with a focus on Africa, South America, the U.S., and China.
- Why
- To determine if AI can be used to help developing nations before the window closes, and to address potential for 'digital colonialism'.
- African Union AI Strategy GDP Boost
- $1.5 trillion by 2030 (potential)
- African AI Startups Funding (5 years)
- $803 million
- Global AI Investment (Annually)
- $100-130 billion
- Countries with AI Strategies
- 16 African Countries (growing)
- Chile AI Investment (2021-2030)
- $26 billion
- Brazil AI Plan Funding
- $4.1 billion (2024-2028)
- Hello Tractor Farmer Income Increase
- 227%