The trio has unveiled AKILI AI, an AI-driven support platform designed to empower Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises across Africa.

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

This innovative platform leverages Meta’s Llama Open Source model and other  AI technologies to provide MSMEs with the tools they need to thrive and begin to address obstacles they face such as limited access to finance, difficulties in navigating markets, and inadequate tailored advisory support.

In a joint statement, the trio stated that AKILI AI seeks to empower African MSMEs by maximising their potential and enabling inclusive growth and sustainable development across the continent. 

It added: "It demonstrates the transformative power of Meta’s Llama model and other AI technologies in addressing the challenges faced by MSMEs, fostering partnerships and collaboration with key stakeholders, including governments, development partners, and international organizations, to support the platform’s scalability and impact."

AUDA-NEPAD CEO Nardos Bekele-Thomas, commented: "The launch of AKILI AI marks a significant milestone in our journey towards empowering African entrepreneurs. By leveraging AI, we are providing MSMEs with the tools they need to overcome challenges and drive sustainable development. This platform is a testament to our commitment to innovation and inclusive growth."

Bekele-Thomas continued: "We believe this platform will be a catalyst for positive socio-economic change across Africa.".

Speaking about the launch, Kojo Boakye, vice president of Public Policy, Africa, Middle East and Türkiye Meta, said: “The launch of AKILI AI marks a significant milestone in our mission to democratise access to cutting-edge technology and unlock Africa's entrepreneurial potential.

"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. 

"This partnership demonstrates the transformative impact that can be achieved through collaborative efforts between governments, the private sector, and civil society in addressing the continent's most pressing challenges and seizing its many opportunities.”