Nairobi, Jan. 19 -- In little more than a decade, artificial intelligence (AI) has transitioned from an obscure terminology to a central component of global business discourse. Hardly any corporate strategy, product launch or policy speech is complete without reference to AI.

But as the term proliferates, its meaning risks dilution. For many consumers - particularly in emerging markets - AI is yet to transform into tangible improvements in their daily lives.

This matters because we are entering a period in which technology will increasingly shape the way societies respond to fundamental pressures, including population growth, urbanisation, constrained resources and rising expectations for quality life.

By 2050, Africa's population is p...