TRENDS presents forward-looking vision on AI in Brazil-Africa Forum 2024

emirates7 - As a diamond sponsor of the Brazil-Africa Forum 2024, TRENDS Research and Advisory underscored the vital role of artificial intelligence (AI) in advancing sustainable development across Africa. The organization emphasized the promising potential of AI to promote digital inclusion and financial empowerment, especially within developing nations on the continent.

During the session, which was attended by key figures such as Mauro Vieira, Brazil's Minister of Foreign Affairs; Martin Mbeng, Dean of the African Heads of Mission in Brazil; Prof. João Bosco Monte, President of the Brazil Africa Institute; Maisoon Al Dah, Chargé d'Affaires at the UAE Embassy in Brazil; and other leaders from global institutions and think tanks, Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al Ali, CEO of TRENDS, highlighted the necessity of investing in AI infrastructure and building human capacity to fully harness the benefits of this technology.

Under the theme “Artificial Intelligence: Boosting Digital and Financial Inclusion,” Dr. Al Ali spoke on AI's transformative potential to change how we live and work, driving economic growth and enhancing lives globally. He emphasized the need for collaboration between think tanks, stating that intellectual cooperation can opportunities, address challenges, and pave the way for a prosperous future, both regionally and globally. Dr. Al Ali also noted the growing international focus on AI and the rapid pace of investments, stressing the value of dialogue among researchers on the future impact of AI in a connected world.

He cited a World Bank report affirming that digital transformation is driving development in Africa, and enhancing digital inclusion is key to enabling African nations to benefit from current and future AI advancements. Dr. Al Ali also highlighted the UAE's pivotal role in supporting African nations, pointing to various investments, initiatives, and international partnerships that help bolster Africa’s digital economy.

TRENDS concluded by reiterating the importance of ongoing efforts to develop and implement AI in Africa, with a focus on capacity building and strengthening international cooperation. Dr. Al Ali expressed hope that the Brazil-Africa Forum would accelerate digital transformation on the continent and advance sustainable development goals.

On the sidelines of the forum, TRENDS awarded the TRENDS Research Medal to several notable figures for their contributions to scientific research and their cooperation with TRENDS in promoting a culture of research across multiple fields. Dr. Al Ali presented the medals to Mauro Vieira, Martin Mbeng, Maisoon Al Dah, and Prof. João Bosco Monte, acknowledging their efforts and support for TRENDS' research initiatives. The recipients expressed gratitude for the recognition and commended TRENDS for its significant international presence through research, studies, and foreign offices, affirming that scientific research is essential for a well-considered future.

Organized by the Brazil-Africa Institute, the Brazil-Africa Forum 2024 focused on enhancing economic and investment ties between Brazil and African nations, with special attention to sectors such as agriculture, renewable energy, and infrastructure. The forum was attended by high-ranking officials, decision-makers, researchers, and experts from both continents.

The two-day event featured specialized sessions on agriculture, highlighting Africa’s vast arable lands and Brazil's expertise in agricultural production. Participants stressed the need to exchange knowledge and technology to achieve food security on both continents. Discussions also focused on leveraging the potential of renewable energy in Africa and Brazil, particularly in solar, wind, and hydropower, emphasizing investment in this sector to drive economic growth and job creation.

Sessions dedicated to infrastructure explored ways to overcome challenges in Africa and attract private investment, with experts underscoring the importance of public-private partnerships. Additionally, the forum highlighted the role of technology, particularly AI, in promoting financial inclusion, given that millions in Africa still lack access to traditional banking services.

Participants concluded by calling for strengthened cooperation between Brazil and African nations to achieve sustainable development and improve living standards. They agreed on the need to intensify joint efforts, implement shared investment projects, and facilitate knowledge and technology exchange between the two regions.