Johannesburg — The United Arab Emirates has announced a $1 billion initiative to expand artificial intelligence infrastructure and AI-enabled services across Africa, as part of efforts to support national development priorities and accelerate digital transformation on the continent.
The programme, titled the AI for Development Initiative, was unveiled at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg and is designed to bring advanced AI technologies into critical sectors such as education, healthcare and climate adaptation. The investment will support the deployment of AI systems, technical capacity and innovation frameworks that enable African countries to harness emerging technologies for socio-economic progress.
In a statement accompanying the announcement, the UAE highlighted its belief that artificial intelligence is not merely an emerging industry but a foundational element for the future of humanity. The initiative, it said, reflects a commitment to developing responsible, inclusive and productivity-driven AI solutions that can contribute meaningfully to global economic advancement.
The UAE is already one of the largest foreign investors on the African continent. Bilateral trade between the UAE and African nations reached approximately $107 billion in 2024, a 28% increase from the previous year. Total UAE investments in Africa between 2020 and 2024 exceeded $118 billion, underscoring its growing economic and strategic footprint across the region.
Alongside its African expansion strategy, Abu Dhabi continues to invest heavily in artificial intelligence at home, including plans to develop one of the world’s largest data centre hubs supported by advanced US technology. These efforts align with its ambition to position itself as a global AI powerhouse while extending technological capabilities to emerging economies.
Although the UAE is not a formal member of the G20, its participation in the Johannesburg summit reflects its growing influence in global economic and technological discussions, particularly on sustainable development and digital inclusion.
Why This Matters for Africa
The $1 billion commitment is expected to accelerate AI adoption across African nations, improve access to smart digital services, and strengthen local capacity in emerging technologies. Analysts say the initiative could play a significant role in modernising public services, improving healthcare delivery, enhancing education systems and supporting climate resilience strategies.
However, experts also note the importance of strong governance frameworks, data protection policies and local capacity-building to ensure the long-term sustainability and equitable impact of AI deployment across the continent.
What to Watch Next:
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Which African countries will partner with the UAE under this initiative?
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How will the funding be deployed—infrastructure, skills, or applications?
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What governance and data-protection mechanisms will be put in place?
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How will local tech ecosystems be integrated (or excluded)?