An interesting announcement relevant to Africa has come from official sources in the UAE, which has announced the launch of the AI for Development initiative, worth US$1 billion, to support and finance artificial intelligence projects in African countries.
The initiative aims to bolster economic and social development across the continent by developing digital infrastructure, enhancing government services and improving productivity.
The announcement of the initiative was made during a speech delivered by Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, at the G20 summit, as part of the UAE’s commitment to driving sustainable growth through broader international partnerships and innovative financing solutions that support development in emerging economies.
Details on specific projects, recipients or timelines for the disbursement of this significant sum have not yet been revealed, but we do know that the initiative will be implemented by the Abu Dhabi Exports Office (ADEX), part of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, in cooperation with the UAE Foreign Aid Agency.
This initiative aims to help developing countries overcome key developmental challenges by integrating artificial intelligence technologies into essential sectors such as education, agriculture and infrastructure, creating innovative solutions that accelerate growth and expand opportunities for sustainable development.
Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development and Chairman of the Exports Executive Committee of ADEX, explains: “ADEX’s leadership of the AI for Development initiative reflects the UAE’s belief that artificial intelligence is a real force for advancing equitable growth and sustainable development. By combining technology, financing and partnerships, we aim to support developing countries in overcoming developmental challenges and building long-term economic resilience.”
He adds: "Through this initiative, we aim to empower UAE enterprises to implement pioneering, high-impact development projects that strengthen economic and technological cooperation between the UAE and African countries, while supporting the achievement of global sustainable development goals.”
Since 1971, the UAE estimates that it has provided more than AED152 billion (about US$41.4 billion) in aid to African nations.
