As the world races to harness the power of artificial intelligence, Africa is quietly scripting its own story-one that’s not about catching up, but about leapfrogging. Tanzania is not just catching up-it’s leapfrogging.
In a world where AI is often seen as the preserve of the world’s richest economies, Phillip Besiimire, Executive Director of Vodacom Tanzania, is proving that digital innovation can-and must-advance equity, resilience, and human flourishing. We sat down with Phillip to discuss how Vodacom is using AI to build sustainable infrastructure, empower people, and prepare Africa’s workforce for the future.
Q: Phillip, the phrase “intelligent futures” is gaining traction in Africa. What does it mean in the context of AI for Good?
Phillip Besiimire:
Intelligent futures, for us, means using AI to solve the most pressing challenges of our time-whether it’s access to finance, food security, or digital inclusion. It’s about harnessing technology not just for efficiency, but for equity and empowerment. In Tanzania, we’re seeing AI drive real impact: M-Pesa uses AI-driven analytics to extend credit to millions who’ve never had access to formal banking, and our M-Kulima initiative brings AI-powered tools to over three million smallholder farmers, boosting yields and incomes. It’s about creating a future where innovation is local, inclusive, and purpose-driven.
Q: How is Vodacom Tanzania’s approach to AI different from what we see in the West?
Phillip:
We’re not just importing technology-we’re adapting and localizing it. Our challenges are unique: only 28% of Africans have smartphones, and many still use basic USSD technology. So, we design AI solutions that work for everyone, not just the digitally elite. Our locally hosted IoT stack keeps data within Tanzania, ensuring privacy and digital sovereignty. We partner with global leaders like Google and Microsoft, but always with a focus on local relevance and control.
Q: What role does sustainable infrastructure play in Africa’s intelligent future?
Phillip:
Sustainable infrastructure is the backbone of intelligent societies. In 2024 alone, Vodacom invested over TZS 156 billion to expand network capacity and coverage, including remote regions like Zanzibar. This connectivity enables real-time AI applications in everything from agriculture to utilities. Our IoT-powered smart metering is helping optimize water and power use, reducing waste, and supporting sustainable growth. Intelligent futures are built on resilient, adaptable systems that serve everyone.
Q: How are you preparing the next generation for an AI-driven world?
Phillip:
Africa’s youth-60% of our population-is our greatest asset. We’re investing in digital literacy, lifelong learning, and public-private partnerships to ensure young people have the skills to thrive in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. In Tanzania, 52% of CEOs expect generative AI to boost profitability soon, and we want our workforce to lead-not follow-this transformation.
Q: How do you ensure that AI empowers, rather than excludes, marginalized communities?
Phillip:
Empowerment is central to our mission. We design AI platforms that prioritize accessibility, equity, and opportunity. Whether it’s affordable digital services, AI-driven financial inclusion, or supporting rural farmers, our goal is to leave no one behind. Intelligent futures must be people-centric, fostering social cohesion and ensuring everyone has a voice in shaping tomorrow.
Q: What’s your message to the Silicon Valley tech community?
Phillip:
The next wave of AI innovation will come from the Global South. Africa isn’t just a consumer of technology-we’re co-creators. We invite global partners to collaborate on solutions that are ethical, sustainable, and inclusive. The future of AI is about human flourishing, and together, we can build intelligent futures for all.
