A New Era for Africa’s AI Ecosystem Begins with Launch of International Hub

Hon. Fausta Bergamotto, Undersecretary of State for MiMIT (L) and Philip Thigo Special Envoy for Technology for Kenya (R)

The Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy (MiMIT), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has co-designed the AI Hub for Sustainable Development to boost Africa’s technological capacity. Unveiled under Italy’s 2024 G7 Presidency, the initiative will officially launch in Rome later this month, signaling a long-term commitment to strengthen Africa’s digital future.

The AI Hub aims to fill major gaps in Africa’s artificial intelligence landscape by supporting computing infrastructure, data accessibility, capacity building, and private sector development. The program aligns with the broader vision of the Mattei Plan, targeting key sectors such as agriculture, energy, education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Africa’s AI ecosystem is rapidly growing, yet only 5 percent of innovators have access to adequate computing systems, and 80 percent of data is stored offshore hindering local innovation.

The hub’s work will be carried out over the next three years through localized programs and partnerships across priority countries, with support from governments, academia, and private industry. The initiative remains a priority under the current G7 Canada and G20 South Africa Presidencies, in close coordination with the African Union and African Development Bank.

In a show of commitment, Hon. Fausta Bergamotto, Undersecretary of State for MiMIT, is visiting Kenya this week for two high-level events: a Compute Dialogue featuring major green computing firms, and an ecosystem meeting hosted by E4Impact Foundation in Karen.

The events, funded by Italian cooperation, aim to incubate and accelerate African start-ups.With Rome as its coordination center, the AI Hub promises to transform Africa’s AI-driven industrial landscape ensuring the continent is not just a consumer but a co-creator in the future of global technology.