AUDA-NEPAD, Meta, Deloitte launch Akili AIAUDA-NEPAD, Meta, Deloitte launch Akili AI

The African Union Development Agency-New Partnership for Africa's Development (AUDA-NEPAD), Meta and Deloitte have together launched Akili AI – an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven platform that will empower micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) across the African continent.

AUDA-NEPAD said the platform leverages Meta's Llama Open Source model and other AI technologies to provide MSMEs with the tools they need to thrive in today's competitive market.

"The launch of AkiliI AI marks a significant milestone in our journey towards empowering African entrepreneurs. By leveraging AI, we provide MSMEs with the tools they need to overcome challenges and drive sustainable development. This platform is a testament to our commitment to innovation and inclusive growth," said AUDA-NEPAD CEO Nardos Bekele-Thomas.

How Akili AI works

AUDA-NEPAD said the AI platform will help MSMEs address obstacles faced such as limited access to finance, difficulties in navigating markets and inadequate advisory support.

Akili AI is intended to empower African MSMEs by unlocking their full potential, fostering inclusive growth and promoting sustainable development across the continent.

"It demonstrates the transformative power of Meta's Llama model and other AI technologies in addressing the challenges faced by MSMEs, fostering partnerships and collaboration with key stakeholders, including governments, development partners, and international organizations, to support the platform's scalability and impact," AUDA-NEPAD explained.

Related:Google to invest $5.8M in African AI training

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Bekele-Thomas stated that through the partnership, Akili AI showcases the potential of Meta's Llama model to address real-world challenges MSMEs face and that it will catalyze positive socio-economic change across Africa.

Kojo Boakye, vice president of public policy for Africa, Middle East and Turkey at Meta, said the launch of Akili AI marks a significant milestone in the company's mission to democratize access to cutting-edge technology and unlock Africa's entrepreneurial potential.

AI deals in Africa

Africa has seen a surge in tech companies investing in AI with the aim to digitally transform the African continent.

In November 2024, pan-African operator Orange partnered with Meta and Open AI to train AI models in African languages.

In October 2024, tech giant Google pledged an additional $5.8 million through Google.org to support AI and cybersecurity training initiatives in Nigeria, Kenya and South Africa.

Google's pledge came after infrastructure and digital services provider Cassava Technologies launched a dedicated AI business unit, Cassava AI in August 2024.

In June 2024, telecom operator Ooredoo Group signed a deal to become a Nvidia Cloud Partner (NCP) to enable the development of AI in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Also in June 2024, the African Development Bank (AfDB) and tech firm Intel partnered to equip 3 million Africans and 30,000 government officials with advanced AI skills.