Managerial Experiences with Artificial Intelligence in Strategic Decision-Making: Evidence from Zambia

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) transformed strategic management allowing it to make decisions based on data, forecast via prediction and automate processes. This research paper explored how AI tools are influencing strategic management within the Zambian context, where companies were operating within economically unstable, underdeveloped, and developing digitalized environments. An interpretivist-based qualitative methodology was employed and secondary data analyzed through academic literature, policy documents and international report. The results showed that AI improved predictions, efficiency, risk management, and customer-centred strategies, which helped organisations become more competitive. But the cost was prohibitive, technical skills were limited, poor data ecosystems existed and there were gaps in the regulations. The researcher concluded that, when combined with organisational preparedness, capacity building, as well as empowering policies, AI might become a strategic resource contributing to sustainable growth. Government, businesses, and academia were advised to create a strong AI ecosystem, with further studies being recommended to utilise primary data and longitudinal analysis.