Africa in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
« Ad Lucem per Scientiam » · Informing, simplifying and sharing the opportunities of digital technology across Africa
A continent on the move
Africa is the largest continent in the world, young and dynamic, yet still largely fragmented politically, legally, and linguistically. It represents an immense reservoir of opportunities, and today Africa is moving forward with determination in the field of information and communication technologies.
“This newsletter, created by two high school students, is dedicated to exploring the evolution of ICT in Africa. It aims to simplify complex topics, highlight key challenges, and shed light on opportunities shaping the future of the continent, designed primarily for our generation of students.”
Africa by the numbers
Key developments in digital & AI · January 2026
Global leader in generative AI adoption
A Microsoft report reveals South Africa is the most advanced country on the continent in generative AI adoption, surpassing the global average, driven by major players like Standard Bank in cybersecurity.
Strong infrastructure in Microsoft’s AI readiness index
Morocco stands out for its solid physical infrastructure in the global AI readiness report, though further progress is needed in public policy execution.
New research center for digital sovereignty
INSA announces the launch of a center dedicated to digital sovereignty and the development of local AI algorithms.
“Morocco AI 2030” roadmap unveiled
Official presentation by the Ministry of Digital Transition, targeting 50,000 new specialized jobs by 2030. (Source: Medias24)
National AI Strategy 2.0 released
The National AI Council publishes its updated strategy focused on sovereign AI and Arabic-language data processing. (Source: Egypt Today)
Digital Highway Program · Phase 2 launched
The government launches the deployment of 100,000 km of fiber-optic infrastructure to support the rural digital economy. (Source: Ministry of ICT Kenya)
First “AI Factory” launches in Johannesburg
Nvidia and Cassava Technologies launch Africa’s first AI Factory to democratize high-performance computing across the continent. (Source: IT News Africa)
AI-powered autonomous delivery drones
Kigali announces a partnership with Silicon Valley stakeholders to pilot autonomous drones for medical supply delivery in remote areas.
AI Center of Excellence opens in Casablanca
Onepoint signs an agreement to establish an AI excellence hub targeting both European and African markets. (Source: Le Matin)
Key investors & financing institutions
Kenya · AI enters the era of action
The 2026 Nairobi AI Forum marks a strategic turning point for the continent, with a clear shift from theoretical ambitions toward the concrete, large-scale deployment of AI solutions adapted to African realities.
- Limited access to GPU computing power
- Insufficient infrastructure
- Fragmented funding landscape
- Connectivity disparities across regions
- Promotion of sovereign and sustainable AI
- Focus on energy, data and local skills
- Strengthening international partnerships
- Transition from prototype to real solutions