Business Leaders Reveal How They Are Reaping Big From Artificial Intelligence Solutions
Drake Nyamugabwa
Artificial intelligence (AI), according to experts is the ability of a digital computer or computer-controlled robot to perform tasks commonly associated with intelligent beings.
The term is frequently applied to the project of developing systems endowed with the intellectual processes characteristic of humans, such as the ability to reason, discover meaning, generalize, or learn from past experience.
During the 5th Trend Setters Forum held on Thursday 29th August 2024 at Sheraton Hotel in Kampala, key players from the business community convened to discuss the importance of adopting AI is transforming businesses through innovation, creation of new ideas, and leveraging AI solutions.
Hon. Joyce Nabosa Ssebugwawo, Minister of State for ICT & National Guidance while officiating at the 5th Trendsetters forum highlighted the importance of creating new ideas that change society and grow businesses through innovations in Information, Technology, and Communication (ICT) for solutions to various challenges.
“Innovation is important, not just in ICT, but in all areas of business. It helps businesses grow and improve our society” she said.
The Minister added that in a bid to support business innovations, especially of young people, the government ensures that there is a good working environment ensure sustained results.
“In the public sector, our job is to make sure there is a good environment for young people to create new ideas and solutions. We are here to support you as you work to make a difference” she added.
Yvonne Mpanga
Yvonne Mpanga, CEO & Founder of Business Trendsetters' Forum explained that the forum is a platform for CEOs, Business Leaders, and entrepreneurs who seek to set new trends, re-invent, and be equipped for disruptive impact in business.
The theme of this years forum was: “Artificial Intelligence, Your Mind, and Your Business”
Various key players in the business community during the 5th Trendsetters Forum were recognized for leading in innovation and growth strategies in their sectors including Dr. Monica Musenero, Dr. Joseph Muvawala, Hon Joyce Ssebugwawo, Asrah Ssemwogerere, among others
At the forum, products and services were exhibited by different companies and entrepreneurs including; Nile Chocolates Uganda, Smart Check from Hive Colab, Krystak Ice Limited, Pollina Awake Wine and Juice Processors, Fibre Foods, and Rushid Crafts among others.
Mr. Denis Nabende from the Uganda Registration Service Registration Bureau (URSB) explained how AI is revolutionizing business, making it easier to develop systems that are accessible online and more efficient than ever.
Dr. Rose Nakasi
Dr. Rose Nakasi, from Makerere AI Lab, leading the Ocular AI project that detects diseases in blood samples which includes malaria, said that the project secured a Google grant to enhance her groundbreaking work. She stated that the innovation has gone a long way in speeding up hospital diagnoses.
She urged players in the health sector to leverage AI including automated microscopy to capture and align imaging and improve confidence in diagnosis.
“We want to scale the mobile microscopy to other diseases like TB detection and Cancer. We need to address the challenge of limited trained personnel” she said.
The founder of Maarifasasa Ltd, Mr. Okello highlighted the game-changing power of AI in driving business success from boosting efficiency to cutting costs and improving decision-making.
