Natural artificial intelligence is indeed the mother of invention

Does Tanzania possess the intellectual, social, and spiritual capacity to navigate the rise of artificial intelligence (AI)? Absolutely.

However, this confidence is rooted in understanding the value of scarcity, chaos, and illogic as crucial forces that fuel resilience, creativity, and vitality. Africa, and Tanzania in particular, has an abundance of these traits, which might just help us adapt to the evolving world of AI.

The phrase “necessity is the mother of invention” perfectly captures this idea. As history shows, this proverb has ancient roots, from Aesop’s fables to Plato’s Republic, and even in more modern interpretations. It reflects humanity’s tendency to innovate under pressure, which is especially relevant when considering the challenges Tanzania has faced over time.

Tanzania has a deep relationship with scarcity. The 1980s are often referred to as Africa’s “lost decade,” a period marked by economic hardship, political turmoil, and social struggles. I remember the taste of American yellow cornmeal—a food aid staple meant for livestock but transformed into a daily meal in Tanzanian households during those difficult times. This scarcity followed the Ujamaa years and the costly Kagera War, both of which strained the economy.

But these challenges are nothing new. Tanzania’s history is intertwined with the disruptions of the Indian Ocean slave trade, European colonialism, and post-colonial leadership challenges. Despite these obstacles, the country remains resilient and resourceful, now facing a population boom, propelled by advancements in science and technology, and the looming presence of AI.

While it’s easy to focus on how AI might exploit our vulnerabilities, caution can also breed opportunity. Our history and circumstances have given us a resilience that equips us to navigate uncertainty. Tanzanian culture, rich in folklore and moral complexity, has long demonstrated an ability to adapt to and subvert challenges. Characters like Sungura Mjanja and Abunuasi embody the cleverness and wit that have been passed down through generations, qualities that can serve us well in the face of technological disruption.

AI will undoubtedly impact Tanzania, and likely already is. But Africa thrives in environments where necessity drives innovation. I believe we will find ways to adapt AI to our needs, perhaps even reshape or repurpose it. And while we do that, we’ll continue to export our unique culture to the world—through music, art, and creativity—as we’ve always done.