Beninese entrepreneur and IT expert Soglo Eric Houenafa is sounding the alarm on the potential dangers of artificial intelligence (AI) in Benin. As the author of the book "The Dangers of Artificial Intelligence in Africa," Houenafa is advocating for greater awareness and education on the benefits and risks of AI. With a background in computer engineering and a Doctorate in Business Administration from the College of Paris, Morocco, Houenafa is well-equipped to speak on the issue. He recently shared his insights with 24 Heures au Bénin.
Houenafa's primary concern is that citizens, businesses, and the youth of Benin must understand the limitations of AI. While AI can be a valuable tool for entrepreneurs, teachers, and administrators, it also carries risks such as errors, data breaches, and manipulation. Houenafa emphasizes the need for digital education, citing examples of AI-related scams that have targeted Beninese citizens. These scams include identity theft, fake investment schemes, and manipulated media.
One of the most significant threats Houenafa highlights is the potential for AI-powered scams. He warns that citizens should be cautious of messages or calls that seem to come from familiar sources, but may be attempts to extract sensitive information or money. Houenafa advises individuals to verify the authenticity of requests, protect their validation codes, and avoid sharing sensitive information under pressure.
The impact of AI on the future of work is another concern for Houenafa. While AI may transform certain tasks and make some jobs obsolete, he believes that it also presents opportunities for young Beninese to acquire new skills. Houenafa recommends that young people master a profession and then learn to use AI tools to enhance their work. He also suggests that educational institutions should provide practical exercises to help students detect AI errors and protect sensitive data.
For Beninese businesses, Houenafa recommends starting with simple rules to ensure safe AI adoption. This includes defining authorized tools, identifying confidential information, and designating a contact person in case of doubt. He also advises companies to begin with fictional data and test AI solutions on a limited scale before expanding their use.
Houenafa sees significant potential for AI in Benin and across Africa, particularly in education, agriculture, and enterprise management. He believes that AI can help address specific needs, such as retrieving documentation, organizing stock, or preparing educational exercises. To realize these benefits, Houenafa emphasizes the importance of collaboration between universities, businesses, and public institutions.
Houenafa is also behind the MiaIA project, which aims to preserve human memory by creating digital representations of individuals. The project involves collecting personal experiences, values, and expressions, which can be used to create interactive digital representations after a person's death. While ambitious, Houenafa is clear that this project is not about transferring consciousness or achieving immortality, but rather about preserving a person's legacy.
Key points
- Expert warns of AI-related scams targeting Beninese citizens
- AI presents opportunities for young Beninese to acquire new skills
- Collaboration between universities, businesses, and public institutions is crucial for safe AI adoption in Benin
