The 24-hour pan-African business news channel says the move showcases its commitment to technological advancement and enhances its news delivery.
The avatar, a blend of AI and human likeness, is modelled on Chanel Retief, who works for Africa Business News (ABN), the parent group of CNBC Africa.
By integrating the features and persona of a real-life member of the ABN family, CNBC Africa aims to infuse a touch of authenticity and familiarity into the AI newsreader, bridging the gap between technology and human connection.
While AI technology continues to grow and capture an increasing share in various sectors, CNBC Africa emphasises that this new AI initiative is designed to augment human productivity, not replace it.
The integration of the AI newsreader will work in tandem with CNBC Africa's team of skilled journalists, analysts, and anchors, ensuring a seamless synergy of human expertise and technological efficiency.
“We're incredibly excited about this new chapter for CNBC Africa," says Sid Wahi, executive director of CNBC Africa.
"As a first step, by introducing our AI newsreader, we're not just adopting new technology; we're embracing a future where humans and machines collaborate to deliver news in ways we once only imagined."
