By Wakhungu Andanje
African entrepreneurs have every reason to celebrate following the launch of an artificial intelligence platform designed to empower their businesses.
The launch, which took place recently in Midrand, South Africa, saw the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) partner with Meta and Deloitte to introduce AKILI AI, an AI-driven platform aimed at supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the continent. The platform is expected to drive positive change by addressing key challenges such as limited access to finance, difficulties in navigating markets, and a lack of tailored advisory support.
This state-of-the-art platform leverages Meta’s Llama Open Source model and other cutting-edge AI technologies to equip MSMEs with the tools needed to thrive in today’s competitive market.
AUDA-NEPAD Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Nardos Bekele-Thomas, described the initiative as a major milestone in the journey toward empowering African businesses.
“The launch of AKILI AI marks a significant milestone in our efforts to empower African businesses. By harnessing this transformative AI technology, we are providing 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.”
With the introduction of AKILI AI, African MSMEs will be better positioned to unlock their full potential, driving economic growth and sustainable development across the continent. The initiative will also foster collaboration among key stakeholders, including governments, development partners, and international organisations, to scale its impact.
“We are also thrilled to partner with Meta and Deloitte on this transformative initiative,” Bekele-Thomas added. “AKILI AI showcases the potential of Meta’s Llama model in tackling real-world challenges faced by MSMEs. We believe this platform will be a catalyst for faster and positive socio-economic change across Africa.”
Speaking at the launch, Kojo Boakye, Vice President of Public Policy for Africa, the Middle East, and Türkiye at Meta emphasised the significance of democratising access to cutting-edge technology for Africa’s entrepreneurial sector.
“The launch of AKILI AI is a major breakthrough in our mission to democratise access to advanced technology and unlock Africa’s entrepreneurial potential. By leveraging Meta’s Llama Open Source AI model, we are equipping MSMEs with the tools and resources needed to drive innovation, create jobs, and build a more inclusive and prosperous future for all Africans.”
The partnership between AUDA-NEPAD, Meta, and Deloitte underscores the power of collaboration between governments, the private sector, and civil society in addressing Africa’s most pressing challenges and capitalising on available opportunities.
About AUDA-NEPAD
The African Union Development Agency-NEPAD (AUDA-NEPAD) is the development agency of the African Union, mandated by the Assembly of Heads of State and Government to coordinate and implement regional and continental priority projects that promote regional integration and accelerate the realisation of Agenda 2063.
AUDA-NEPAD’s mandate includes coordinating priority initiatives, strengthening the capacity of African Union member states and regional bodies, providing knowledge-based advisory support, mobilising resources, and serving as Africa’s technical interface with development stakeholders and partners.
