The Impact of AI in the Workplace

The Impact of AI in the Workplace: Key Issues Highlighted by CABEF at the Africa HR Forum 2024

The Central Africa Business Energy Forum (CABEF) infused a new energy of reflection during the second edition of the Africa HR Forum on June 6 in Douala. The theme of the 2024 edition, « Technology and Artificial Intelligence in the Workplace – A Look at the African Context, » resonated deeply, thanks to the insightful intervention of Chairwoman Nathalie LUM.

Ms. LUM brilliantly highlighted the impact and challenges of artificial intelligence (AI), emphasizing the crucial need for workers to adapt to increasing automation. Following a captivating speech by Cameroon’s Minister of Employment and Vocational Training, His Excellency Issa Tchiroma Bakary, on the integration of AI in the workplace, Nathalie LUM inspired the participants by addressing essential and pressing issues.

She illuminated the major challenges the country must face, such as the deficit in electrical energy and water, as well as the increasing difficulties of the population in coping with the rising cost of living. Ms. LUM stressed the importance of addressing these fundamental issues before fully exploiting the potential of artificial intelligence. She asserted that adequate professional training is essential for workers to thrive and benefit from technological advances.

For the CABEF Chairwoman, every employer must ensure that their staff adapts to new scientific standards to improve efficiency, productivity, access to new markets, and skill development. She called for governments and businesses to tackle these problems head-on, thereby creating an environment conducive to innovation and economic development.

By highlighting the daily challenges faced by workers, Nathalie LUM called for a holistic approach to improve living and working conditions. She presented the rise of AI as an opportunity to usher in a new era of work, characterized by innovation and collaboration, advocating for the responsible use of this technology to create more productive, human, and inclusive workplaces.

In conclusion, to maximize the opportunities offered by artificial intelligence, it is imperative to resolve the structural problems hindering social and economic progress in Africa. CABEF calls for collective action to address these challenges and create an environment conducive to the professional and personal fulfillment of individuals on the continent.

Nathalie Lum
Chairwoman of CABEF