THE African Development Bank (AfDB) and technology giant Intel have formalized their cooperation to transform the African digital ecosystem. The partnership aims to equip 3 million Africans and 30,000 government officials with AI skills.

Information obtained by this paper indicated that the partnership was sealed at the recent AfDB’s Annual Meetings in Nairobi, Kenya.

It is said that the deal will help create a critical mass of Africans proficient in Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) skills to accelerate growth and productivity and position Africans as contributors, not just consumers of 4IR.

The training will address socio-economic challenges and boost productivity in key growth sectors such as agriculture, health, and education, thereby disrupting traditional growth cycles.

Bienvenu Agbokponto Soglo, Director of Government Affairs Africa and IGA CTO Liaison at Intel stated, “Intel looks forward to furthering its collaboration with African governments to make advanced technologies such as AI accessible to all, breaking down barriers related to geography, gender, and ethnicity, and enabling widespread participation in the digital economy.”

The partnership will also support African countries, regional economic communities, and continental organizations in developing harmonized policy and regulatory frameworks in AI, 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, data and cloud.

Ousmane Fall, AfDB’s Acting Director of Industrial and Trade Development, underscored the importance of digital skills for Africa’s youth.

“With advancements in digital technology, our world is rapidly evolving, and so is our youthful population, projected to reach 830 million by 2050. To develop skills on a large scale and at the necessary speed, we need everyone's cooperation,” he said.

Adding that: “The Bank is thrilled to collaborate with Intel to work towards this shared commitment. Together, we are shaping the digital future of Africa and empowering our youth.”

Experts recommend this initiative, stating that Africa has the potential to cultivate a critical mass of individuals proficient in 4IR skills. With these skills, individuals will be better equipped to drive growth and productivity in their respective fields, creating a culture of innovation and technological advancement.

For the, empowering Africans with AI skills not only enhances their individual capabilities but also elevates the continent as a whole. A knowledgeable and skilled workforce in cutting-edge technologies can position Africa as a valuable contributor to the global tech industry, rather than just a consumer of technology.

Juma Mrisho, a local IT specialist, emphasized, “This shift in perspective will not only spur economic growth and development but also enhance Africa’s presence on the international stage, opening up new opportunities for collaboration and innovation.”

He added, “Ultimately, prioritizing education and training in AI is a strategic move that will bring far-reaching benefits to the continent. By investing in AI education, Africa can leverage the potential of its people to lead the way in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, driving progress, prosperity, and innovation for years to come.”

The AfDB is Africa’s premier development finance institution, comprising three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF), and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF).