Businesses advised to embrace AI-driven tech for efficiency

A marketing and fintech consultant, Mariam K. Agyeman-Buahin, has said businesses that adopt AI early stand to maximise output, scale their operations and stay ahead in an evolving digital economy.

Speaking at the Real Talk Debate hosted by Women in Marketing Africa, she emphasised that AI is not a threat to Africa’s creative sector but a transformative tool that enhances productivity and global competitiveness.

“AI should be seen as a collaborator that amplifies human potential rather than a competitor,” she stated.

She also urged African creatives and businesses to embrace AI-driven technology for expansion and efficiency.

"AI automation is proving to be a game-changer in creative businesses, allowing professionals to focus on high-value strategic and artistic work rather than repetitive tasks.

"A McKinsey report indicates that AI can automate up to 45 per cent of tasks in the creative sector, freeing up time for innovation and business growth," he said.

Efficiency

Additionally, Mariam K. Agyeman-Buahin said a 2024 survey by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) found that African freelancers using AI tools like ChatGPT and Jasper save over 12 hours per week, leading to increased efficiency.

"More notably, 68 per cent of women freelancers reported higher incomes, demonstrating AI’s role in driving financial empowerment.

"LinkedIn research shows that freelancers leveraging AI boost productivity by up to 50 per cent, enabling them to manage more clients, increase output and expand their businesses without proportional increases in costs," she said.

Furthermore, she said beyond revenue growth, AI is also significantly cutting business expenses.

She stressed that AI-powered solutions are lowering content production and marketing costs, helping businesses operate more efficiently.

"For example, AfroXXI Studio in Senegal has leveraged AI-powered voiceover tools to dub films into more than ten African languages at a fraction of traditional costs."

Innovation

Consequently, she noted that this innovation has expanded content accessibility while reducing expenses, proving how AI can enhance scalability and inclusivity in media businesses.

"The African Union estimates that AI could add $1.5 trillion to Africa's GDP by 2030.While concerns about AI-driven job displacement persist, data suggests otherwise. 

"A 2023 AfroCreatives Guild survey found that 74 per cent of African creatives using AI tools saw increased productivity without reducing hiring rates," she said.

She added that AI integration presents an opportunity for sustainable industry growth, financial inclusion and economic transformation.

"Businesses that embrace AI now stand to benefit from increased output, cost efficiency and global relevance in a competitive market," Mariam K. Agyeman-Buahin said.