A new survey by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) has revealed that nearly half of jobs across Africa could be significantly transformed by artificial intelligence within the next three years.
According to the report, about 49 percent of existing roles are expected to experience major changes as AI technologies become more integrated into business operations, public services, and everyday work processes. Rather than eliminating jobs entirely, the study suggests that AI will reshape how tasks are performed, requiring workers to adapt and acquire new skills.
The survey highlights that sectors such as finance, telecommunications, education, healthcare, and customer service are likely to see the most rapid transformation. Routine and repetitive tasks are expected to be increasingly automated, allowing employees to focus more on strategic, analytical, and creative responsibilities.
PwC emphasized that while AI presents enormous opportunities for productivity and economic growth, it also poses challenges related to job displacement, skills gaps, and regulatory readiness. The firm urged governments, businesses, and educational institutions across the continent to invest heavily in digital skills training and workforce reskilling programmes.
Experts cited in the report noted that Africa has the potential to leverage AI to boost innovation and competitiveness, especially among its youthful population. However, they cautioned that without proactive planning and inclusive policies, the benefits of AI could widen existing inequalities.
The survey ultimately calls for collaboration between policymakers and the private sector to ensure that the rise of AI becomes a catalyst for inclusive growth rather than a source of disruption.
