Revolutionising the future: Transformative power of robotics

Imagine a future where humanoid robots are deeply integrated into every aspect of daily life, functioning alongside humans in homes, workplaces, and public spaces.

This future would feature robots that not only resemble humans physically but also possess sophisticated artificial intelligence, making them highly autonomous, emotionally responsive, and capable of performing complex tasks.

Now, stop imagining because what was once considered a realm of science fiction is rapidly becoming a reality today.

Recently I interviewed a humanoid robot, a complex artificial machine designed with a human-like shape, during the Gulf Information Technology Exhibition (GITEX Global) in Dubai; the world’s largest tech and startup event. It was fascinating to see the kind of memory and information that the robot had on current affairs.

Our interview was relatively smooth but the most interesting bit was to see how the robot would handle the visitors who at some point interrupted our interview.

“We are having an interview, could you step back there are cameras behind you.” That statement from the robot caught many of the visitors off guard. “I am actually serious; you need to move” the robot added.

Humanoid robots

That experience with the humanoid robots got me thinking. What’s the future of Robotics in Africa? The fact is that robotics could play a transformative role in addressing some of Africa’s key challenges, such as healthcare, agriculture, education, and infrastructure, while also spurring economic growth and job creation. Marcus Hold, a humanoid robots engineer and the Product Deployment Manager, at Engineered Arts Ltd. UK notes that while the technological potential of humanoid robots is undeniable, the market viability of such products remains uncertain.

Several factors will influence their acceptance and success, including cost, reliability, and public perception. “Robotics is poised to revolutionise industries such as logistics and manufacturing by automating routine tasks, improving productivity, and minimising human error.

Our humanoid robots are meant to complement the human workforce, especially in undertaking tasks that could be monotonous in nature” noted Marcus Hold.

Some experts argue that rather than causing widespread unemployment, robotics can create new jobs. A 2022 report from the International Labour Organization (ILO) notes that “while automation may displace certain low-skill jobs, it will also create demand for new, higher-skilled roles in programming, maintenance, and oversight of robotics systems.”

From the Gulf to Nairobi, robotics innovation is beginning to take root. One example that stands out is Robot Café located in Kilimani, Nairobi which is using robots controlled remotely to serve customers with remarkable efficiency. The restaurant became the first in Kenya to rely on the use of robot employees, marking a significant shift in how we think about service in the hospitality sector.

Fourth Industrial Revolution

As the world accelerates into the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Africa must not be left behind. While the continent is often viewed through the lens of its agricultural wealth, resource abundance, and youthful population, an unexpected player is entering the economic arena—robotics; with significant implications for manufacturing, healthcare, education, and even agriculture.

African universities, tech hubs, and startups should explore ways to leverage robotics to solve some of the continent's most pressing challenges. The move by the African Robotics Network, for example, to introduce low-cost robotics kits in schools across the continent, helping young learners to cultivate interest and expertise in STEM fields could not be timelier.

For Africa to fully realise the benefits of robotics, collaboration between governments, the private sector, and educational institutions is critical. Governments need to establish favourable policies that encourage innovation and investment in robotics. Public-private partnerships could help build the infrastructure necessary for startups and research institutions to thrive.

Africa’s robotics revolution has begun, and its success depends on how well the continent can integrate these cutting-edge technologies with its vibrant and resource-rich environment. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards—socioeconomic development, innovation, and global competitiveness—make it a path well worth pursuing.

Mr Mwangi (Team Lead, Anchor Bay) is a journalist