Google selects start-ups for Africa AI Accelerator programme

Google announced the inaugural cohort of its inaugural 'Google for Start-ups Accelerator: AI First’ programme, yesterday.

The selected 11 firms are addressing both Africa's concerns and bigger global issues with artificial intelligence.

A McKinsey analysis forecasts that AI could add $1.3 trillion to Africa's GDP by 2030, highlighting its revolutionary power for the continent.

Against this background, the shortlisted startups will participate in a 10-week accelerator programme. They will benefit from mentorship sessions, technical guidance, and networking opportunities in addition to Google's AI expertise and a $350,000 allocation of Google Cloud Credits.

The chosen start-ups are: Avalon Health (South Africa), Chatbots Africa (Ghana) Dial Afrika Inc (Kenya), Famasi Africa (Nigeria), Fastagger Inc (Kenya), Garri Logistics (Ethiopia), Izifin (Nigeria), Lengo AI (Senegal), Logistify AI (Uganda), Telliscope (Ethiopia) and Vzy (Nigeria).

Folarin Aiyegbusi, head of Google Startup Ecosystem, Africa, comments: "AI is not simply a great enabler, but also a significant platform shift. That's why we're working hard to make it simple and scalable for people to create using AI."

One of the chosen start-ups, Nigeria’s Famasi Africa is scaling AI-powered digital health solutions to reach underserved communities. Adeola Ayoola, CEO and co-founder, Famasi Africa says: “We're certain that with Google's help, we'll be able to scale our solutions, reach more pharmacies, and, ultimately, improve healthcare outcomes."

Dial Afrika’s CEO and co-founder Japheth Dibo added: “With this assistance and mentoring, we hope to redefine customer service and provide businesses across the African continent with the tools they need to thrive and prosper."

Google has sponsored African entrepreneurs, through a variety of programmes, since 2017. These firms have been funded with a total of $263 million and produced over 2,800 job opportunities.