Meta, parent company for Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp has partnered with the Nigerian government to launch the Llama Impact Accelerator to support early-stage startups.
This aims to leverage the use of open-source Llama models to foster the development of AI-powered solutions for Nigeria in core sectors like healthcare, agriculture, security and safety and other fields.
The initiative will be primarily implemented by Meta alongside the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics), and the National Information Technology Development Agency.
The program features a six-week incubation phase where selected teams will receive technical training and mentorship from AI experts and industry leaders.
This will be followed by six months of ongoing support, providing access to additional technical resources and opportunities.
Sade Dada, head of public policy, Anglophone West Africa at Meta, said Meta aims to enable the development of solutions that can drive national development and are impactful for communities by making open-source AI more accessible and relevant to local challenges.
“We’re excited to partner with the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy to launch this AI Accelerator in Nigeria, a country with a robust innovation ecosystem,” she stated.
Dada highlighted Nigeria’s burgeoning tech ecosystem and a pool of AI talent as ideal for developing scalable, homegrown solutions.
Meta views this initiative as part of its broader commitment to democratising access to responsible AI and fostering local innovation in Nigeria.
Dr. Bosun Tijani, minister of communications, innovation an digital economy, described the partnership as a significant step toward building a thriving AI ecosystem in Nigeria.
“We see AI as a key driver for national development, and this program will equip innovators with the tools and guidance to tackle pressing issues,” he added.
Applications for the Llama Impact Accelerator are open until June 27, 2025. Interested startups can find more information at www.llamaimpactssa.splashthat.com.
Share