The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) will not eliminate procurement jobs but will instead redefine the profession.
This means that, for procurement professionals alarmed by the disruption of AI, the African Supply Chain Confederation (ASCON) says the technology will allow experts to focus on higher-value strategic responsibilities.
Secretary General John Karani indicates AI is expected to automate repetitive procurement tasks, freeing professionals to concentrate on areas where human judgment remains indispensable.
These include strategic decision-making, ethical oversight, supplier relationship management, negotiation, risk management, and leadership.
He stressed that while AI can analyse data and generate recommendations, accountability for procurement decisions must remain with people.
According to him, the growing adoption of AI also raises important governance questions, including how much authority organisations should delegate to intelligent systems and who should be held responsible when AI-assisted decisions produce unintended consequences.
John Karani therefore called for greater investment in digital literacy, analytical skills, and governance frameworks to ensure procurement professionals are equipped to manage increasingly intelligent systems.
He argued that getting the transition right could position Africa as a global leader in next-generation procurement, strengthen implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), attract foreign direct investment and improve access to international financing.
Rather than replacing professionals, he said, AI will elevate procurement into a more strategic discipline capable of driving economic transformation across the continent.
