Nations around the world are pouring billions into Artificial Intelligence research, development and innovation. About two weeks ago, United States President Donald Trump announced that the founders of OpenAI, SoftBank, and Oracle are creating a joint venture(Stargate) that will build data centers and provide over 100,000 jobs in the US. The government itself has invested over $4 billion dollars in the last 5 years on AI.
While the Americans are currently dominating the industry, the rest of the world is also trying to catch up. China recently made waves with DeepSeek AI, an advanced model that reportedly cost less to develop than the American ones. This truly emphasizes the power of strategic investment and resource management in AI development.
Yet in the midst of this, Africa’s presence in the AI conversation remains relatively muffled. Where are the African created AI models? Why is this the case? What can we do to improve the current situation?
Where are the African AI Models?
Very few AI models developed in Africa have gained global recognition, despite Africa’s increasing talent and interest in producing technologies. Some African-led AI initiative include:
- YarnGPT: a text-to-speech AI model that can read text aloud in a Nigerian accent created by a Nigerian University student, Saheed Azeez.
- Masakhane: a grassroots initiative working on machine translation for African languages to bridge tech AI language gap.; spearheaded Vukosi Marivate and Jade Abbott.
- Lelapa AI Inkuba LM: a natural language processing (NLP) model which supports and enhances low-resource African languages, including Swahili, Yoruba, isiXhosa, Hausa, and isiZulu.
- AI for African Mask Generation: an AI model able to learn concepts around the design space for African masks, including textures and geometry and develop it. It was created by Victor Dibia, a Nigerian born researcher.
These innovations are promising but may not be enough to compete on the global stage. African nations are more consumers of AI technology than producers, leaving the continent highly dependent on foreign built models.
However, the future is unwritten. Africa may face challenges such as inadequate funding, lack of research facilities, and brain drain but all hope is not lost. If Africa begins to take AI development seriously, first focusing on homegrown solutions and advancing, there is a chance to shift the narrative.
Why We Need to Invest in African Kids Now
Africa’s youth population is the largest in the world, making them a powerful force for innovation—if given the right tools.
As a parent, you play a crucial role in shaping your child’s future. AI is not just for engineers and tech companies—it is becoming an essential part of everyday life, from healthcare to finance to education. The careers of tomorrow will require AI literacy, and our children must be prepared to compete on a global stage. Here’s how you as a parent can help:
- Encourage Curiosity in AI and Technology – Introduce your child to AI through online courses, books, and hands-on projects. Platforms like Scratch, Python for Kids, and AI-driven educational apps make learning fun and accessible.
- Enroll Them in Coding and AI Classes – Many organizations offer coding and AI programs for children. Look for local initiatives, online courses, or bootcamps that provide structured learning experiences.
- Foster a Growth Mindset – Help your child understand that technology is not just for a select few. AI is a tool that anyone can learn to use and innovate with.
- Advocate for AI Education in Schools – Push for better STEM and AI integration in the school curriculum. Talk to school administrators about incorporating AI literacy programs.
- Support Tech-Inspired Extracurricular Activities – Robotics clubs, hackathons, and STEM competitions can spark a love for AI and problem-solving in children.
Africans are already behind in the AI game, but we do not have to stay there. The responsibility lies with us—parents, educators, and policymakers—to ensure that the next generation is equipped with the knowledge and resources to compete globally. If we take bold steps now, Africa can transition from being AI consumers to AI innovators, shaping the future rather than being shaped by it.
