Africa is emerging as a significant player in the global artificial intelligence landscape, with its AI market expected to grow from $4.5 billion in 2025 to $16.53 billion by 2030. Several countries are driving this growth, leveraging AI to address local challenges and improve lives.
In Kenya, startups like Simba AI are developing chatbots that understand local dialects, outperforming global AI tools in speed and contextual relevance. Simba AI's chatbot is designed to create over one million jobs in the next year by training youth in AI-related skills. Cassava Technologies, in collaboration with NVIDIA, is building AI factories in several African countries, including South Africa, Egypt, Kenya, Morocco, and Nigeria. These factories will empower African businesses, startups, and researchers to develop and deploy AI solutions.
Egypt is a leader in AI readiness, with plans to train professionals and establish AI companies by 2030. The government aims to generate hundreds of AI companies, train 30,000 people, and increase the country's revenue from the tech sector. Google has invested $37 million in AI development across Africa, focusing on food security, online safety, multilingual AI models, and education tools.
While Africa's AI market presents immense opportunities, challenges remain, including inadequate infrastructure, uneven internet access, and a shortage of skilled talent. Governments and institutions are working to address these challenges, with many launching AI initiatives to nurture local talent and startups. The African Union has declared AI a continental priority, and countries like Kenya and Egypt are developing national AI strategies to drive innovation and growth.⁴
