Across Africa, many small businesses still rely on instinct, referrals, and word of mouth to survive in increasingly competitive markets. Yet as artificial intelligence reshapes global commerce, many entrepreneurs remain locked out of the digital tools transforming how businesses sell, scale, and understand customers.
After nearly three decades building sales and distribution networks across West Africa, Kayode Kolawole has emerged as one of a growing number of African business leaders advocating for practical artificial intelligence adoption within the continent’s private sector.
From navigating the complexities of cross-border trade to overseeing sales operations at one of sub-Saharan Africa’s major industrial distribution companies, the sales executive has witnessed firsthand how technology is redefining modern business operations.
In a recent interview with Business Insider Africa, Kolawole discussed why he chose to release his book, The Salesperson’s Pocket Guide to Artificial Intelligence, as a free resource, why delayed AI adoption could leave African businesses at a competitive disadvantage, and why access to practical AI knowledge matters as much as the technology itself.
The conversation comes as global investment in artificial intelligence continues to accelerate. PwC estimates that AI could contribute up to $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030.
