African Growth and AI Network: University of Cape Town

The African Growth and AI Network (AGAIN) seeks to provide context-specific evidence on how AI is impacting labour markets, productivity and inequality in Africa — a critical issue as AI adoption accelerates. The AGAIN consortium, consisting of research institutions across Africa, will coordinate data collection and analysis with strong attention to vulnerable groups, including women, youth and people with disabilities, in South Africa, Ghana, Kenya and Uganda, among other countries. The resulting evidence will inform inclusive and responsible AI policies aimed at improving job opportunities and economic resilience.

Researchers will lead efforts to assess AI's effects on job creation and loss, job roles, skills requirements, earnings and employer adoption, focusing on the experiences of intersectional groups. The study employs quantitative and qualitative methods, including surveys and interviews. Collaboration with policymakers and stakeholders aims to advance understanding and inclusive governance of AI.

Key outcomes include real-time data on AI’s effects on jobs and firms in Africa, guidance for effective AI strategies and social protection policies, and enhanced collaboration among policymakers, civil society and businesses. Ultimately, this project will equip policymakers and decision-makers with the data, evidence and recommendations they need to harness AI for inclusive economic growth and decent jobs in Africa while mitigating the risks and creating adequate support for economic transitions.

AGAIN is part of Artificial Intelligence for Development (AI4D), a partnership between IDRC and the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. It is aimed at strengthening policy, innovation and leadership to advance responsible and inclusive AI development in Africa. AI4D’s vision is to foster an inclusive, responsible AI ecosystem that improves quality of life for all across the continent and beyond.