Google invests in Africa's AI development

Google has announced a significant commitment of US$5.8mn aimed at accelerating AI skilling initiatives across Sub-Saharan Africa

This investment seeks to empower individuals and organisations to leverage artificial intelligence for economic growth and social impact.

In a recent statement, Matt Brittin, president of business & operations for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, emphasised the transformative potential of AI in driving economic development and addressing pressing challenges such as healthcare and climate change. According to Google's Digital Opportunity of Africa report, AI could contribute up to US$30bn to Sub-Saharan Africa's economy by 2030. However, to unlock this potential, the tech giant stresses the importance of equipping the workforce with essential AI skills and resources.

The announced funding will support a range of initiatives aimed at fostering a comprehensive understanding of AI across various sectors. Key focus areas include:

• Empowering workers: Providing essential AI skills training to individuals across diverse industries.
• Educating youth: Promoting awareness of AI safety and ethics among teenagers to ensure responsible use.
• Supporting non-profits: Equipping leaders of non-profit organisations with foundational AI skills to enhance their impact.
• Assisting the public sector: Enabling governments to develop and implement AI solutions for public services and policymaking.

Google highlighted examples of African innovators already utilising AI to address critical issues. One notable project is Jacaranda Health in Kenya, which uses AI to provide vital maternal and newborn health services in remote areas. Additionally, AirQo, a project led by Makerere University, combines AI and air monitoring technology to combat pollution across major African cities.

How is Google Innovating Africa?

Google's commitment to research and development is evident in its Google Research Africa centers located in Accra, Ghana, and Nairobi, Kenya. These centers focus on creating innovative AI solutions tailored to African challenges while contributing to global advancements. Projects such as Open Buildings, which employs AI to identify and map buildings across the continent, exemplify this focus.

Furthermore, Google is enhancing its presence in Africa with the establishment of a Product Development Center in Nairobi, dedicated to creating products tailored for the African market. This includes innovations in voice search and an HTML5 gaming platform that has already attracted one million daily active users.

Recognizing that collaboration is essential for realising Africa's AI potential, Google is actively partnering with governments, non-profits, educational institutions, and the private sector. In Nigeria, for example, the company is working with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy to support AI talent development and empower local startups.

With this commitment, Google aims to unlock Africa's extraordinary potential in AI innovation, fostering an environment where technology can empower communities and drive meaningful change across the continent.