In a groundbreaking partnership, the African Development Bank (AfDB) and Intel are set to equip three million Africans and 30,000 government officials with advanced artificial intelligence (AI) skills. This initiative aims to bridge the technology gap in Africa, empowering individuals with cutting-edge skills in AI, robotics, and data science.

The partnership seeks to enable Africans to contribute to global technological advancements and drive economic growth. The training program is expected to have a positive impact on various sectors, including agriculture, health, and education. By overcoming socioeconomic challenges and increasing productivity, this initiative can support sustainable development and improve the overall quality of life in Africa.

Intel's Africa Government Affairs Director, Bienvenu Agbokponto Soglo, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating that Intel aims to make advanced technologies accessible to everyone, regardless of location, gender, or ethnicity. The partnership goes beyond individual education, helping African countries develop consistent policies and regulations for digital technologies like AI, 5G, and cloud computing.

While African countries are striving to develop AI, Nigeria has made significant progress by launching the first multilingual large language model in the continent. However, many African countries face a significant talent gap in creating AI technology that can compete with tech giants. The high cost of training AI models also poses a significant barrier for many individuals and organizations.

In conclusion, the partnership between AfDB and Intel is a significant step towards empowering Africa with AI skills. By bridging the technology gap and developing a unified approach to digital transformation, Africa can unlock its full potential and drive economic growth. This initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of investing in Africa's future.