\n\nAfrica stands to add an estimated $136 billion in productivity gains through the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), but only if countries can enable secure and seamless cross-border data flows, a senior Microsoft Africa executive has told TechCabal. Microsoft notes the continent currently controls less than 2% of global computing power, with infrastructure gaps and fragmented digital regulations slowing AI deployment and regional integration.
Experts say strict data localisation laws and differing national data protection frameworks have created data silos that limit regional AI growth and hinder startups, banks and digital services from scaling across borders. They argue that harmonised policies, mutual recognition of data standards, and a “sovereign cloud” model — where data remains subject to local laws even if processed elsewhere could help Africa unlock the full potential of AI in sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, fintech and education.
