The MTN Group CTIO Roundtable Africa 2026 has taken place in Accra, bringing together business leaders, technology experts, and innovators to discuss how artificial intelligence is changing the way organisations operate across the continent.
Held at the Labadi Beach Hotel under the theme “AI and the Future of Business,” the event focused on how companies can use AI to improve efficiency, serve customers better, and make smarter decisions in a fast-changing digital economy.
Speaking at the forum, Bernard Acquah, Chief Information Officer of MTN Ghana, described artificial intelligence as a powerful tool that can be used across many industries. He explained that unlike older technologies designed for single tasks, AI can support multiple business functions, making it one of the most important shifts in modern technology.
He noted that many organisations are no longer treating AI as optional. Instead, they are building it into their core operations to drive productivity and innovation.
Acquah also addressed concerns about job losses. He said businesses should move away from the idea that AI will replace workers and instead focus on how it can support and improve human work. According to him, AI should be seen as a tool that helps people do their jobs better, not a threat to employment.
He added that companies already using AI are seeing real benefits, including faster processes, better customer service, and improved use of resources. These results are driving increased global investment in the technology.
However, Acquah warned that the growth of AI must be matched with strong safeguards. He stressed the need for proper governance, data protection, and cybersecurity as AI systems become more widely used. He also pointed out that cybercriminals are beginning to use AI tools, making digital threats more complex.
He emphasised that human oversight remains essential. Business leaders must take responsibility for decisions supported by AI, while workers need training to understand and use these systems effectively.
Saed Sayed, Chief Executive Officer of Chenosis, called for a more structured approach to AI adoption. He said many companies are using AI simply because it is trending, rather than aligning it with clear business goals.
According to Sayed, artificial intelligence is already helping businesses make faster, data-driven decisions. In sectors like financial services, it is improving credit assessment, reducing risk, and creating more personalised customer experiences.
Despite these advances, he stressed that human factors such as trust, empathy, and strong leadership remain critical. He said technology alone cannot drive success, and organisations must invest in their people and build a culture that supports change.
The roundtable highlighted a clear message: while AI offers major opportunities for growth, its success in Africa will depend on how well businesses balance innovation with responsibility and human development.
