AUDA-NEPAD, Meta, Deloitte launch Akili AI
The African Union Development Agency, in partnership with Meta and Deloitte, has launched Akili AI, an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven platform aimed at empowering micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across Africa.
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Empowering MSMEs Across Africa
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 stated that the platform leverages Meta's Llama Open Source model and other AI technologies to provide MSMEs with the necessary tools 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.
The AI platform is designed to help MSMEs address obstacles such as limited access to finance, difficulties in navigating markets, and inadequate advisory support, ultimately empowering them to unlock their full potential, foster inclusive growth, and promote sustainable development across the continent.
Transformative Power of AI
AUDA-NEPAD explained that Akili AI demonstrates the transformative power of Meta's Llama model and other AI technologies in addressing the challenges faced by MSMEs. The platform aims to foster partnerships and collaboration with key stakeholders, including governments, development partners, and international organizations, to support its scalability and impact.
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Through the partnership, Akili AI showcases the potential of Meta's Llama model to address real-world challenges faced by MSMEs and catalyze positive socio-economic change across Africa.
Kojo Boakye, Vice President of Public Policy for Africa, Middle East, and Turkey at Meta, emphasized that 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.
Tech Companies Investing in AI in Africa
Africa has witnessed a surge in tech companies investing in AI with the aim of digitally transforming the continent. In November 2024, pan-African operator Orange partnered with Meta and Open AI to train AI models in African languages.
