Africa continues to grapple with persistent challenges such as poverty, weak governance, corruption, inadequate healthcare, food insecurity, limited educational access, and underdeveloped infrastructure. These factors have significantly constrained its socio-economic progress for decades. However, the advent of emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data-driven solutions, offers transformative opportunities to address these challenges at their core. Within this technological setting, computational intelligence (CI), encompassing machine learning, neural networks, evolutionary algorithms, and swarm intelligence, provides robust tools for pattern recognition, process optimisation, and the development of sustainable, innovative interventions. This presentation explores my area of expertise in CI and highlights the relevance of my research in addressing Africa’s contemporary development challenges. I will reflect on key milestones in my work and examine their broader significance, particularly in leveraging CI to enhance decision-making, optimise resource distribution, and stimulate innovation across critical sectors. Drawing from real-world applications and student-led initiatives in logistics, healthcare, and smart agriculture, I will illustrate how CI can support sustainable development, improve public service delivery, and empower local communities.
