AU, Meta, Deloitte launch AKILI AI to empower African MSMEs

The African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD), in partnership with Meta and Deloitte, has unveiled AKILI AI, an innovative AI-driven platform designed to empower Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Africa. The platform leverages Meta’s Llama Open Source model and other advanced AI technologies to equip MSMEs with tools to overcome critical challenges such as […]

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

The platform leverages Meta’s Llama Open Source model and other advanced AI technologies to equip MSMEs with tools to overcome critical challenges such as limited access to finance, difficulties in navigating markets, and a lack of tailored advisory support.

During the launch, AUDA-NEPAD CEO Ms. Nardos Bekele-Thomas described AKILI AI as a significant milestone in the journey to empower African entrepreneurs.

According to her, by harnessing the transformative power of Meta’s Llama model and other AI technologies, the platform seeks to address the unique obstacles faced by MSMEs while fostering collaboration with key stakeholders, including governments, development partners, and international organizations, to ensure scalability and maximize impact.

Speaking about the platform, Vice President of Public Policy for Africa, the Middle East, and Türkiye at Meta, Kojo Boakye, highlighted the platform’s role in democratizing access to cutting-edge technology and unlocking Africa’s entrepreneurial potential.

Boakye said: “Leveraging the power of Meta’s Llama Open Source AI model, we are equipping MSMEs with the tools and resources necessary to drive innovation, create jobs, and build a more inclusive and prosperous future for all Africans.”