A coalition of African and international partners has launched an initiative to develop African focused AI language models, aiming for more inclusive and representative digital future. The announcement was made during the third Mobile World Congress (MWC) Africa, on October 21 in Kigali.
The programme, under a banner “AI Language Models in Africa, By Africa, For Africa,” seeks to strengthen local technological capabilities while preserving the continent’s rich linguistic and cultural diversity. By building homegrown AI models, the initiative aims to ensure that African realities are understood and reflected in the rapidly expanding AI landscape.
“The mobile industry is the backbone of Africa’s economy, supporting approximately eight million jobs and contributing 7.7 percent of the continent’s GDP already higher than the global average. Its influence will continue to grow,” said Vivek Badrinath, Director General of the Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA).
Yet, experts warn that challenges remain. Most AI today is trained on data from Europe, North America, and other parts of the Global North, leaving African languages and experiences largely unrepresented. Limited datasets, insufficient computing infrastructure, and a shortage of AI specialists are key barriers to full participation.
“This initiative is about making AI inclusive, locally relevant, and culturally aware, we are ensuring that African languages are not left behind in the global AI revolution,’ Badrinath added.
The initiative brings together major telecom operators such as Airtel, MTN, Orange, Vodacom, Ethio Telecom, and Axian Telecom. Alongside them, research and technology organizations, including Lelapa AI, Pawa AI, Awarri, the Masakhane African Languages Hub, and the African Population and Health Research Center, are contributing expertise.
The programme will focus on four strategic pillars that include, data development and inclusivity, computing resources, talent development, and policy frameworks. Dedicated working groups will drive progress, with outcomes shared at future GSMA events to maintain transparency and impact measurement.
Currently, billions of speakers of African languages lack access to AI tools. Without representation, the continent risks widening economic and digital divides. By training AI systems on African languages and contexts, the initiative opens the door to innovations across education, healthcare, creative industries, and governance.
“Africa’s linguistic and cultural diversity is one of our greatest assets. By investing in African-led AI, we are turning what was once a challenge into an opportunity,” said Angela Wamola, Head of GSMA Africa. “This is about empowering African innovators and ensuring the continent plays a leading role in shaping its digital future.”
GSMA is calling on governments, startups, academia, donors, and global technology companies to join this collaborative effort, sharing expertise, data, and resources to accelerate progress.
