Harnessing AI, IoT, and Big Data for social and economic growth in Africa: A Bibliometric review

Orientation: Because of the critical contribution of new technologies to innovation and their potential for global economic growth, artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT) and Big Data have surged in academic research. Research purpose: This review aimed to examine recent research on these technologies and explore how the African continent can leverage them to address its pressing developmental needs. Motivation for the study: Technology is no longer a supplementary tool but rather a major driver of advancement. Technologies such as AI, the IoT and Big Data are addressing global difficulties, boosting productivity and encouraging innovation. Research design, approach and method: The search approach involved locating pertinent databases, specifically on Scopus, JSTOR and Lens. A total of 187 articles were analysed using the Bibliometrix platform and AI for more complex graphs. Main findings: The review findings revealed that Big Data, IoT and AI have the potential to revolutionise society and drive development worldwide, including in Africa, while also facilitating the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 8, 9, 13, 15 16 and 17. Practical/managerial implications: Adopting AI, IoT and Big Data not only presents opportunities but also challenges for the African continent’s tech-driven development. If carefully utilised, they could assist low-income nations in Africa in overcoming historical obstacles. Contribution/value-add: The contribution of this study lies in the spotlight it has shed on the potential of these new technologies for African development, thereby encouraging further research, particularly empirical research, to track their impact on the ground.