Africa's Role in Global AI Economy Highlighted by Expert

At the Unleash Global Business Conference 2026 held on April 25 at Johns Hopkins University’s Bloomberg Center in Washington D.C., Dr. Elizabeth Jack-Rich, CEO of Elin Group, argued that Africa is central to the future of the global artificial intelligence economy.

She stated that the continent's resource base and industrial potential will play a defining role in shaping technological advancements. Jack-Rich challenged conventional narratives surrounding AI, asserting that its foundation extends beyond software to include physical infrastructure and raw materials essential for computing, such as copper and rare earth elements.

She noted that Africa's importance is often underestimated, despite its vast mineral resources. Jack-Rich emphasized the opportunity to build integrated industrial capacity in Africa, which will reward operations across the entire value chain in mining, logistics, and power.

She also highlighted Elin Group's commitment to investing in Africa beyond aid, focusing on building operational platforms for an AI economy that relies on African economies.