The African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), in collaboration with Meta and Deloitte, has launched AKILI AI, an innovative platform designed to empower Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Africa.

Ms. Nardos Bekele-Thomas, CEO of AUDA-NEPAD, emphasized that this platform is crucial for equipping MSMEs with essential tools needed to drive sustainable development and innovation.

Utilizing Meta’s Llama Open Source model and cutting-edge AI technologies, AKILI AI aims to help MSMEs tackle challenges such as limited access to finance and difficulties in market navigation.

This initiative underscores the necessity of partnerships among governments, development partners, and international organizations to enhance the platform's scalability and effectiveness.

Moreover, it highlights the importance of collaboration between governments, the private sector, and civil society to effectively address Africa's challenges and leverage available opportunities.

The partnership between AUDA-NEPAD, Meta, and Deloitte reflects a strong commitment to tackling the real-world challenges faced by MSMEs and fostering socio-economic change across the continent.

Kojo Boakye, Meta's Vice President of Public Policy for Africa, pointed out the significance of democratizing access to technology as a means to unlock Africa's entrepreneurial potential.

He further noted that the platform equips MSMEs with vital tools to promote innovation and job creation, thereby contributing to a more inclusive future for Africa.