La’Kerri Jackson, Global Director of Social Impact at UPS, has declared that artificial intelligence (AI) must empower entrepreneurs, not replace human creativity. She made this statement at an entrepreneurship workshop in Accra on Thursday. Ms. Jackson encouraged business owners to adopt AI as a practical tool to enhance productivity. She stressed that entrepreneurs should continue to rely on their knowledge, experience, and innovation.
The workshop, a collaborative effort, brought together 200 established and aspiring Ghanaian entrepreneurs. It was organized by the International Trade Centre’s (ITC) SheTrades Initiative, in partnership with UPS, Visa, and the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA). The program aims to build participants’ skills in artificial intelligence, digital payments, logistics, marketing, and access to finance. This initiative directly addresses critical areas for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana.
This focus on AI and digital skills aligns with Ghana's broader economic strategy to foster a digital economy. The government has consistently promoted technology adoption to boost productivity and competitiveness across various sectors. Initiatives like this workshop contribute to the national goal of equipping the workforce with future-ready skills. Such training is vital for Ghana to leverage global technological advancements effectively.
Ms. Jackson highlighted that entrepreneurs worldwide face common challenges, particularly limited access to capital and export opportunities. She stated, “There are many challenges that entrepreneurs and small businesses face, from exporting challenges to the lack of access to capital. It’s not just specific to Ghana; it’s all over the globe.” This global perspective underscores the universal need for targeted support for small businesses. UPS actively works with organizations globally to help entrepreneurs overcome these barriers.
The company provides support through training, mentorship, and access to business networks. Ms. Jackson cited partnerships with Opportunity International for interest-free microloans and the Fearless Fund for business growth. These collaborations demonstrate a commitment to fostering a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem. Such private-sector engagement is crucial for sustainable economic development in Ghana.
A key objective of the Accra workshop is to help small business owners apply AI to their daily operations. This is done without requiring advanced technical expertise. Ms. Jackson noted that many entrepreneurs already have access to free digital tools. These tools, available on platforms like WhatsApp and Instagram, can improve marketing and promotion without significant investment. She emphasized, “It’s not as hard as we think it is.”
However, Ms. Jackson cautioned entrepreneurs against becoming overly dependent on AI. She stressed that technology should complement, rather than replace, human judgment. She advised, “The angle that people should take is that AI is a thought-leadership partner. You are the brands. You have the intellect. You have the intellectual property.” This perspective encourages a balanced approach to technology integration.
She added, “There is a danger in becoming so dependent on it, but everybody has to exercise discipline and continue to lean on their own intellect.” This warning is particularly relevant in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. It ensures that human ingenuity remains at the core of business innovation. Bassen Anari, UPS Foundation Manager, also challenged participants to translate workshop lessons into practical business actions. He observed that many entrepreneurs participate enthusiastically but few implement the learnings. This highlights the importance of practical application for real economic impact.