Google has announced a 37 million investment package aimed at accelerating the development and deployment of artificial intelligence AI technologies across Africa, with a focus on addressing regional challenges in agriculture, health, education, and language diversity.
Unveiled on Thursday in Accra, Ghana, the initiative includes the launch of a new AI community center designed to foster innovation and collaboration on the continent. James Manyika, Google's Senior Vice President, described Africa as home to 'some of the most important and inspiring work in AI today.
The initiative features the , which will link researchers and non-profits to develop tools that enhance early hunger detection, crop resilience, and support decision-making among smallholder farmers. These efforts come as African food systems face mounting threats from climate change and economic volatility.
In Nigeria and other parts of Africa, AI is already being deployed by agri-tech startups for soil and livestock monitoring, showcasing the continents growing engagement with smart farming technologies.
Beyond agriculture, Google plans to roll out a financing platform for AI startups in health and education. Its philanthropic division has also committed 7 million to expand AI education in Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and Ghana.
