Turning Artificial Intelligence into business value

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has captured the attention of C-suite executives across all industries and is poised to transform businesses in ways we've never seen since the impact of computer technology in the late 20th century. We are already seeing venture capitalists funding AI start-ups at a rapid pace. Technology companies are also moving swiftly to create and capture value in this emerging area. High-profile acquisitions by Google, Apple and Facebook are piquing interest in Artificial Intelligence technologies such as robotics, expert systems, computer vision, speech, gesture and facial recognition. Companies are creating new research labs devoted to innovating with these technologies. In Africa, AI has a strong role to play.