Purpose: The study examined higher education research in Africa and Artificial intelligence: a coerced partnership amidst Mystery. The specific objectives were; i) To examine the readiness in the adoption of AI in research by educational institutions ii) To examine the AI organizational readiness factors of AI in research by educational institutions and iii) To examine the prospects and challenges faced in using AI in research. Methodology: A correlational research design was used together with a quantitative and qualitative approach to collect data from the 384 students, 96 lecturers, and 3 key informants from the selected participating educational institutions. The results were analyzed using SPSS and conclusions were based on comparing significance levels and the observed P-values. Findings: The study found that educational institutions demonstrate significant technological (t=5.518; p<0.001) and environmental readiness (t=3.048; p<0.05) for AI adoption. However, their overall readiness remains insignificant (t=0.862; p>0.05). Regarding organizational readiness, institutions exhibit significant readiness in data (t=2.184; p<0.05) and knowledge (t=2.718; p<0.05) factors, but lack readiness in culture (t=1.269; p>0.05) and strategic alignment (t=1.816; p>0.05). The research also revealed that 95% of respondents believe AI raises significant ethical concerns. Unique Contribution to Theory, policy, and Practice: Research reveals that while Uganda possesses the potential to leverage AI in research, its institutions lack preparedness. Negative perceptions and ethical concerns surrounding AI hinder its application in research aimed at the transforming of African societies. To address this, policymakers should establish AI-specific laws, either through new legislation or amendments to existing National ICT frameworks, to eliminate barriers to AI adoption. Additionally, the government should invest in improving internet connectivity throughout Uganda. Finally, AI refinement is necessary to minimize unethical content in research applications.