Artificial intelligence is becoming an increasingly important business tool, helping organisations improve productivity, automate processes and support decision-making. AI adoption in Africa is accelerating as businesses across the continent explore new ways to use artificial intelligence while facing growing concerns around cybersecurity, data protection and responsible implementation.
A recent global survey by cybersecurity company Kaspersky found that 82% of organisations are concerned about the risks associated with artificial intelligence, even as adoption continues to accelerate. The study surveyed 1,800 IT and cybersecurity professionals and decision-makers across 18 countries and multiple industries.
The findings highlight a growing gap between AI enthusiasm and security preparedness. While businesses recognise the value of AI-enabled tools, many are also aware that poorly managed adoption can introduce new vulnerabilities and operational risks.
AI becomes part of everyday business operations
The survey shows that AI is already being used across multiple business functions. Respondents reported using AI tools for activities including data analysis and visualisation (54%), project management (49%), information search (47%), department-specific tasks (46%), and text generation and editing (41%).
The majority of organisations also expressed a positive view of AI adoption. According to the research, 68% of respondents said they would recommend solutions with built-in AI features, while only 5% preferred to avoid AI-enabled tools.
For businesses across Africa, where digital transformation is accelerating in sectors such as financial services, telecommunications, retail and government services, AI adoption presents significant opportunities to improve efficiency, expand access to services and strengthen competitiveness.
However, the rapid introduction of AI tools also creates challenges for organisations that may not yet have mature cybersecurity frameworks, governance processes or employee training programmes.
AI introduces new security challenges
The survey found that among organisations that experienced cyber incidents in the previous year, some reported threats connected specifically to AI-related vulnerabilities.
These risks include malicious AI applications, exposure of sensitive information through external AI platforms, insecure development practices and employees adopting AI tools without approval from their organisation’s security teams.
As AI becomes integrated into daily workflows, businesses must consider not only the technology itself but also how employees use it, what information is shared with AI systems and who remains responsible for decisions influenced by AI-generated outputs.
“The speed at which organisations are embracing AI is remarkable, but it must be matched with an equally strong commitment to security,” said Brandon Muller, senior security consultant for the Middle East, Türkiye and Africa region at Kaspersky.
He added that organisations need a combination of technology, clear internal procedures and security-aware employees to manage emerging risks.
Building responsible AI adoption strategies
For organisations adopting AI, cybersecurity experts recommend establishing clear internal policies that define acceptable use, protect sensitive data and provide employees with guidance on responsible AI practices.
Employee education is becoming increasingly important as AI tools become more accessible. Staff need to understand the risks of sharing confidential information with external platforms, recognising AI-related threats and following organisational security procedures.
Businesses should also monitor how AI tools are being used internally. Unapproved adoption of third-party AI services, sometimes referred to as “shadow AI”, can create security gaps if organisations lack visibility into the tools being used by employees.
Strong governance will become a critical factor in determining whether businesses can gain long-term value from artificial intelligence.
AI Adoption in Africa Depends on Trust and Security
Africa’s growing digital economy creates significant opportunities for businesses to use AI to improve services, increase productivity and develop new solutions. From financial technology and healthcare to agriculture and logistics, AI has the potential to support innovation across the continent.
However, successful AI adoption in Africa will depend on trust, security and responsible implementation.
Rather than focusing only on access to AI technologies, organisations will increasingly need to develop strong governance frameworks, cybersecurity awareness and clear processes for managing AI-related risks.
Companies that combine innovation with security will be better positioned to benefit from the opportunities created by artificial intelligence while reducing potential threats.
Source: Kaspersky global survey of 1,800 IT and cybersecurity professionals and decision-makers across 18 countries, conducted in 2026.
About Kaspersky
Kaspersky is a global cybersecurity and digital privacy company providing security solutions and threat intelligence services for consumers, businesses and organisations worldwide.