Citation:

Thomas Masese, Chidochomoyo Sango, Yogesh Awasthi, 2025. "Adoption of Artificial Intelligence in the Zimbabwean Manufacturing Sector: A Critical Review and Research Agenda", ESP Journal of Engineering & Technology Advancements  5(4): 90-97.

Abstract:

Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping manufacturing through quality control, maintenance, and supply chain planning, yet adoption in Sub Saharan Africa is uneven. The researchers synthesize evidence on AI adoption with a focus on Zimbabwe, guided by Technology Organization Environment (TOE), the Technology Acceptance Model and Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (TAM/UTAUT), the Resource Based View (RBV), and Dynamic Capabilities. The researcher applies a transparent selection process and includes n = 26 studies: Zimbabwe (n = 2), South Africa (n = 2), Africa/regional (n = 0), and global/other (n = 22). Zimbabwe specific evidence is thin and concentrated in SMEs and a food manufacturing case. The review provides a consolidated synthesis of drivers and barriers, clarifies the methodology, and presents a practical research agenda tailored to Zimbabwe. The paper offers a compact framework linking organizational and ecosystem conditions to use cases and outcomes, and a roadmap for firm actions, policy levers, and measurement priorities to scale AI adoption.

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Keywords:

Artificial Intelligence; Digital Transformation; Industry 4.0; Manufacturing; Zimbabwe.