Google has unveiled a Ksh.904 million ($7 million) investment to advance artificial intelligence (AI) education and research in Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Ghana. The move is part of a broader Ksh.4.8 billion ($37 million) initiative aimed at building Africa’s capacity in AI and digital technologies. The funding will support universities and nonprofit organizations developing tailored AI programs, including local curricula and training in online safety and cybersecurity. The initiative focuses on equipping learners with foundational skills in data science and AI development, empowering them to contribute to the continent’s growing digital economy.
Nairobi, widely recognized as a rising tech hub, is expected to benefit significantly. The funding will expand access to training and open up research opportunities for Kenyan students, developers, and tech innovators.
Google is also backing a raft of other AI efforts across the continent. This includes a $25 million (Ksh.3.2 billion) grant for food security solutions, a $3 million (Ksh.388 million) funding injection to the Masakhane Research Foundation which champions AI in over 40 African languages .Google says the initiative is designed to meet Africa’s specific digital needs. In addition to the education support, the company is investing in AI-based food security research, supporting over 40 African languages, and promoting responsible development of AI systems.
Google company also announced the launch of Africa’s first AI Community Centre in Accra, Ghana. The facility will serve as a collaborative space for AI learning, hosting community events, workshops, and hands-on training sessions.
Programming at the centre will be built around four key areas: AI literacy, local technology development, social good, and creative expression. According to Google, the facility is designed to bring together developers, students, and creators to work on AI solutions that are both relevant to Africa and scalable globally.
James Manyika, Google’s Senior Vice President for Research and Labs, said the company sees Africa as a central force in the global AI conversation. “Africa is home to some of the most important and inspiring work in AI today,” Manyika said. “We are committed to supporting the next wave of innovation through local partnerships and investments that empower communities.”
Yossi Matias, Google’s Vice President for Engineering and Research, added, “This support reflects our belief in the continent’s talent and ingenuity. By working closely with local institutions, we are helping to build tools and knowledge that address African challenges and can influence global progress.”
The announcement positions Kenya and its peers at the center of Google’s AI strategy in Africa, reinforcing efforts to nurture homegrown talent and locally relevant solutions. The initiative comes amid a global surge in AI adoption, with Africa increasingly seen as a promising frontier for innovation and skill development.
About the Author
