Google – Making an Impact in Africa with AI

This week, Google announced a major expansion of its support for African languages, adding 15 new languages to its voice, typing, and dictation features on the platform Google Translate. This move will provide language access to around 300 million people across Africa. With this addition, Google now supports 11 out of South Africa’s 12 official languages, leaving sign language as a potential next step.

The expansion is powered by advanced AI and multilingual speech recognition technology, which learns languages much like how children do, associating speech sounds with written text. Google’s commitment goes beyond language translation; it aims to foster cultural relevance and inclusion.

Google is also investing $5.8 million in AI and cybersecurity training programs in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa, benefiting over 14,000 small businesses and entrepreneurs. Furthermore, the company’s AI is being used for flood forecasting in East Africa and urban planning through satellite mapping.

These efforts highlight Google’s commitment to inclusive digital growth and economic empowerment in Africa.

To read more, please check out Google goes all in on African language, AI, skills.