An Open Discussion on AI Information Sharing: Understanding how AI affects online content generation and consumption

Background

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming how information is created, shared, and consumed around the world. From powering search engines to moderating online platforms and personalizing content feeds, AI plays a central role in shaping digital communication. Globally, AI is projected to contribute $15.7 trillion to the economy by 2030, with countries like the United States, China, and the United Kingdom leading innovation in AI-driven content systems and digital infrastructure (PwC, 2018).

In Africa, the adoption of AI is gaining traction. Governments, startups, and civil society organizations are using AI to address local challenges in agriculture, health, finance, and increasingly, media and information ecosystems. For example, platforms like Apollo Agriculture in Kenya and Aerobotics in South Africa are demonstrating how AI can deliver tailored information and insights to local users (AI Media Group, 2022; Smart Africa, 2023). However, challenges persist, including high data costs, limited infrastructure, and a significant shortage of AI professionals, with…