Niyitegeka: Africa's AI success hinges on human capital, not infrastructure

During the State of Digital Economy (SODE) 2026 conference, Michael Niyitegeka, Director of Refactory Academy, highlighted that Africa’s greatest asset in the unfolding artificial intelligence (AI) era will be its human capital, not its computing infrastructure.

Niyitegeka emphasized the critical need for Uganda and other African nations to focus on cultivating practical technology skills among their populations. This, he believes, is essential for the continent to genuinely benefit from the burgeoning AI economy and move beyond simply expanding internet connectivity.

“Africa’s greatest competitive advantage in the AI era is not data centres, it is human capital,” Niyitegeka stated. He argued that while digital infrastructure is important, the continent’s primary opportunity lies in preparing individuals to develop, adapt, and effectively apply emerging technologies.

He pointed out that young Africans are eager to seize technological opportunities but require accessible, relevant training and clear pathways to employment. Niyitegeka stressed that the rapid pace of AI development means traditional, lengthy academic qualifications are insufficient. “Degrees remain important, but the AI revolution cannot wait four years. We need skills that can be learned today and applied immediately,” he urged.

Niyitegeka referenced Refactory Academy’s success, where practical, market-driven training has led to over 70% employment for more than 3,500 program graduates. He reframed the AI and jobs debate, stating the crucial question isn’t about job creation or elimination, but about preparedness: “The question is: who will be ready when those opportunities emerge?”

With Africa’s population set to be a significant portion of the global populace by 2050, Niyitegeka questioned whether the continent’s youth will become AI creators or mere consumers. He underscored that significant economic value, projected up to US$1.5 trillion by 2030, hinges on Africa’s ability to build capacity for creating technologies, rather than relying on imported solutions. Software development, he noted, offers a unique opportunity for global market participation without traditional export barriers.

“AI is not the future, we are already living in the AI era. The rest of us are simply playing catch up,” Niyitegeka concluded, reinforcing the SODE 2026 message that digital transformation’s ultimate success will be measured by citizens’ ability to convert technological access into tangible economic value.

This article is based on reporting from Nile Post.