This systemic review reveals a complex and rapidly evolving AI landscape within Global South economies, characterized by varied adoption rates across sectors, including healthcare, education, agriculture, manufacturing, and services. While AI offers transformative potential, its adoption is impeded by infrastructural deficits, a lack of skilled workforce, inadequate policy frameworks, and the apparent lack of trust in AI technology by pertinent stakeholders. The findings from this review suggest that while the road ahead is challenging, the rewards of successfully integrating AI could redefine the economic landscapes of the Global South.