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Tag: Google Africa

  • Google Debuts AI Mode in Search, Bringing a More Powerful and Intuitive Experience To Users

    Google Debuts AI Mode in Search, Bringing a More Powerful and Intuitive Experience To Users

    Google today announced the launch of AI Mode in Search for users in Nigeria, Kenya and South Africa, introducing a new era of AI-powered search that is more intuitive, comprehensive, and helpful. AI Mode helps users tackle complex, multi-part questions with more intuitive responses, multimodal inputs, and deeper ways to explore topics.

    AI Mode transforms how people interact with Search by allowing them to ask nuanced and exploratory questions that would previously require multiple searches. Powered by a custom version of Google’s latest Gemini 2.5 model, AI Mode brings advanced reasoning and context understanding to Search.

    “We’re incredibly excited to bring AI Mode to our users in the region,” said Alex Okosi, Managing Director, Google Africa. “We know that people in this region are curious and have complex questions about everything from planning a trip to understanding a new concept. With AI Mode, Google is reimagining the Search experience. Users will not only find the information they need more easily but will also be empowered to explore a wider range of content from across the web.”

    AI Mode is especially useful for longer, more detailed queries. A key feature of AI Mode is its advanced reasoning, which uses a query fan-out technique to break down a user’s question into subtopics and simultaneously search a multitude of queries on their behalf. This allows for a deeper dive into the web, uncovering hyper-relevant content. Furthermore, AI Mode is designed to be truly multimodal, allowing users to interact in the most natural way for them, whether through text, voice, or even images.

    Simply tapping the microphone icon or uploading a photo allows users to ask questions using their voice or camera. A core principle of AI Mode is to help users find the best of the web. The AI-powered response includes prominent links to web sources, expanding the types of questions people can ask and opening up new opportunities for content discovery.

    Google remains committed to supporting the open web and ensuring that its AI-powered features are rooted in its core quality and ranking systems. With AI Mode, web links are prominently displayed, ensuring users can easily click through to discover more. Data from AI Overviews shows that AI-powered results lead users to visit a greater diversity of websites and spend more time engaging with them. While AI Mode aims to provide a reliable AI-powered response, in cases where confidence is not high, the system will default to a set of traditional web search results.

    AI Mode will begin rolling out today and will appear as a tab on the Search results page and within the Google app for Android and iOS.

  • Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI) Conversations highlight the crucial role of digital transformation for Africa’s future

    Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI) Conversations highlight the crucial role of digital transformation for Africa’s future

    …the GABI Conversations have highlighted the immense potential of digital technologies and AI for Africa, and we must continue to drive these efforts forward collaboratively

    Digital skills in Africa need to be developed to promote economic growth and development. Additionally, a conducive environment needs to be established where these skills can thrive. This involves implementing comprehensive strategies that include infrastructure, policy support, and ecosystem development. This is one of the key highlights emerging from a recent report issued by the Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI). GABI is a solution-oriented global platform connecting leaders from all over the world to drive and invest in the unstoppable opportunity of Africa’s economic growth.

    The report, titled ‘GABI Conversations’, captures the essence of the UN Global Compact roundtable discussions held on the sidelines of the 2024 Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, Rwanda. Under the theme of ‘Digital Transformation’, this exclusive gathering in May 2024 brought together prominent African CEOs, representatives from global and African businesses, government officials, and key stakeholders in the digital sector to engage in targeted, solution-oriented conversations aimed at driving investment and growth on the African continent.

    “Digital transformation is not just a pathway to economic growth but a vital component for sustainable development in Africa. By investing in infrastructure, fostering policy support, and empowering our entrepreneurs and workforce, we can create an environment where digital skills thrive. The GABI Conversations have highlighted the immense potential of digital technologies and AI for Africa, and we must continue to drive these efforts forward collaboratively. Together, we can ensure that Africa not only participates in the digital economy but leads it,” said Sanda Ojiambo, Assistant Secretary-General and CEO of the United Nations Global Compact.

    Africa’s digital economy is projected to reach 180 billion by 2025, and $712 billion by 2050. This growth is fueled by a vibrant innovation ecosystem in industries like mobile financial services, telemedicine, and e-commerce.

    The demand for digital skills training in Africa is also expected to surge in the coming decade as jobs that previously did not require digital skills will begin to do so.

    It’s estimated that some 230 million jobs across Africa will require some level of digital skills by 2030. This translates to a potential for 650 million training opportunities.

    The event featured a series of panels and fireside chats that delved into critical discussions on the solutions needed to drive Africa’s economic growth. Key conversations focused on bridging the digital divide by providing skills, infrastructure, finance, and other opportunities. Key topics covered included AI governance, technology and the supply chain, the digital economy, upskilling of the future workforce, data centers, and digital infrastructure, among others.

    Speakers at the event included H.E. Professor Yemi Osinbajo, Former Vice President of Nigeria and Guardian of the Timbuktoo Africa Innovation Foundation, H.E. Paula Ingabire, Minister of ICT and Innovation for the Republic of Rwanda, and Mr. Alex Okosi, CEO of Google Africa representing the GABI Circle. The discussions were moderated by Dr. Acha Leke, Chairman of McKinsey Africa, and hosted by Mr. Ozonnia Ojielo, the UN Resident Coordinator to Rwanda.

    Key Conversations Insights

    The significance of multi-stakeholder collaboration was emphasized by participants, highlighting the essential need for cooperation between governments, private sector entities, and other stakeholders to accelerate digital transformation. This collaborative strategy is essential for overcoming obstacles and amplifying the effect of digital initiatives. Emphasis was placed on the necessity of cultivating a highly skilled workforce, described as an ‘army’ of digital professionals, to advance the digital agenda.

    It was stressed that AI has immense potential for the future of Africa. However, the continent must develop the necessary infrastructure to support AI technologies.

    Additionally, it was emphasized that for Africa to benefit from digital transformation, it is essential to establish data centers on the continent. The presence of data centers in only a few African countries hampers progress. It was also stated that data centers must be financially viable and sustainable to bolster digital transformation.

    To ensure individuals can effectively participate in and benefit from the digital economy, the discussions stressed the critical need for comprehensive capacity-building initiatives. One of the key highlights was the call for successful entrepreneurs to establish funds dedicated to supporting emerging entrepreneurs, thereby expanding and strengthening the digital economy.

    Key Recommendations

    The GABI Conversations highlighted the immense potential of digital technologies and AI for transforming Africa. To unlock this potential, it is vital to bridge infrastructure gaps, cultivate collaboration among diverse stakeholders, and empower individuals and entrepreneurs. Creating an enabling environment and making strategic investments in digital infrastructure are essential steps for Africa to achieve a prosperous digital future.

    The key recommendations from the conversations include GABI establishing itself as a leading advocate for AI in Africa from 2025 onwards, with a focus on promoting the necessary infrastructure for AI technologies. Additionally, it was recommended to leverage the GABI platform to build on the initiatives of the UN Secretary-General’s AI Advisory Body, adapting the report’s outcomes to the specific needs of Africa.

    Lastly, the recommendations emphasized the importance of using the GABI platform to engage with African governments and policymakers to advocate for the creation of legal and regulatory frameworks and policies supporting AI development.

    Following the success of GABI Conversations, the UN Global Compact further engaged with business leaders at the African Union mid-year coordination meeting in Accra, Ghana. These events serve as a prelude to the 25 and 26 September 2024 ‘Unstoppable Africa’ event in New York during the UN General Assembly week. The insights and recommendations from these conversations will feed into the broader agenda of ‘Unstoppable Africa’ and inform GABI’s strategic programming and partnerships for 2025.

    Under the leadership of UN Deputy Secretary-General, Amina J. Mohammed, GABI aims to reposition Africa as a business destination and opportunity for investment on the global stage while also contributing towards the African Union Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals. 

    Interested participants can now register (http://apo-opa.co/3A5Dq3G) to request for an invitation to attend the Unstoppable Africa 2024 event in New York on 25-26 September. For more information on the Global Africa Business Initiative, please visit the website (www.GABI.unglobalcompact.org/). 

    Download the GABI Conversations report here (https://apo-opa.co/4dyfAfB) and watch the highlights video of the event here (https://apo-opa.co/4dbAxwS) to explore these insights and gain actionable strategies for driving Africa’s digital transformation.

  • Afreximbank reconstitutes its Creative Africa Advisory Group ahead of CANEX Weekend

    Afreximbank reconstitutes its Creative Africa Advisory Group ahead of CANEX Weekend

    …This group oversees and provides guidance for implementing the Bank’s Creative Africa Nexus Programme

     Ahead of the upcoming CANEX Weekend in Algiers, Algeria, from 16 to 19 October, African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has announced the reconstitution of the Creative Africa Advisory Group (CAAG). This group oversees and provides guidance for implementing the Bank’s Creative Africa Nexus Programme.

    The first meeting of the reconstituted Advisory Group took place at the Waldorf Astoria, Heliopolis, Cairo on 9 July 2024. Co-chaired by H.E Amb. Minata Samate Cessouma, Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development of the African Union Commission, and Senator Ben Murray-Bruce, Founder of Silverbird Group, Nigeria, the CAAG is tasked with guiding Afreximbank’s strategy to support the growth of creative and cultural industries in Africa and its diaspora. Each member will serve a two-year term.

    During the meeting, the CAAG was updated on the overall implementation of the CANEX Programme and particularly on the preparations for the upcoming CANEX Weekend in Algeria. Members were also briefed on the status of the CANEX Africa Digital Platform and the establishment of CANEX Creations Incorporated, the Bank’s intellectual property investment vehicle. Amongst the recommendations shared by CAAG members was to establish a finance subcommittee to ensure optimal disbursement of the Bank’s financing facilities and funding, and continued outreach on our financial products to creatives.

    Co-Chair H.E Amb. Minata Cessouma-Samate commented: “The Bank has been instrumental in helping the AU’s Culture and Sports Programme deliver initiatives aligned with our long-term development objective – The Africa We Want Agenda 2063, and the Revised AU Plan of Action on Cultural and Creative Industries, 2023. We look forward to continued collaboration with the Creative Africa Advisory Group and galvanizing opportunities between the Bank and the Commission leading to conducive policies and regulatory environment for Africa’s creative and cultural economies.”

    Co-chair Senator Ben Murray-Bruce emphasized the crucial role of the Bank in supporting creative ventures through innovation. He stated: “Some of the biggest artists in the world today are Africans and we must be innovative so that channeling money to the continent ceases being an enigma.”

    Dr. Gainmore Zanamwe, Acting Director, Trade Facilitation & IATF – Intra-African Trade Bank, spoke on behalf of Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade and Export Development.  He expressed the Bank’s deep appreciation for the contributions of the members of the first cohort of the CAAG.

    “Reconstituting the Creative Africa Advisory Group marks a significant milestone in our journey to elevate Africa’s creative and cultural industries to new heights. The contributions of the first CAAG cohort have been invaluable in bringing us to this point. As we move forward, I am confident that the reconstituted CAAG will build on their legacy, driving innovation, fostering investment, intra-African trade and export development, and enhancing cultural expression across the continent. Together, we will continue to support and empower Africa’s creative talents, in the context of a Global Africa, ensuring their rightful place on the global stage.”

    Other members of the reconstituted CAAG are: Alex Okosi, Managing Director, Google Africa; Vincent Berry II, Singer, Songwriter and Producer; Didier Drogba, renowned African footballer and President, Didier Drogba Foundation; Omar Ben Yedder, Group Publisher and Managing Director, IC Publications; Azza Fahmy, Founder, Azza Fahmy Designs; Oscar ‘Oskido’ Mdlongwa, Recording Artist and Record Producer, Legend Live; Olasupo Olusi, Managing Director and CEO, Bank of Industry; Kibonen Nfi, CEO, Cameroon Clothing; Mamou Daffe, President, African Culture Fund; Hana El-Beblawy, Founder, ARD Art Institution; Orlando Romain, OECS Advisor on the Creative Economy; George Gachara, Founding Partner, The Heva Fund and H.E. Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy of Nigeria.

  • Nigeria’s Healthtracka selected for the Google for Startups Growth Academy: AI for Health Programme

    Nigeria’s Healthtracka selected for the Google for Startups Growth Academy: AI for Health Programme

    …This year’s program features 24 startups tackling a wide range of healthcare challenges using AI, from early cancer detection and chronic disease management to mental health support and clinical trial optimization.

    Google for Startups has announced that 24 startups have been selected for the 2024 cohort of the Growth Academy: AI for Health programme. The program is designed to support high-potential startups across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) that are leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionise healthcare and medical research.

    Among the selected startups are Nigeria’s Healthtracka, Kenya’s Thalia Psychotherapy and TibuHealth, and South Africa’s Zoie Health. These companies exemplify the potential of AI to address pressing healthcare challenges in Sub-Saharan Africa, advancing mental health integration, providing accessible outpatient services, and delivering affordable healthcare to underserved populations.

    According to the World Health Organization, more than 116 million  people across Africa were already estimated to be living with mental health conditions pre-pandemic and as things stand, there are fewer than two mental health workers for every 100,000 people. Thalia Psychotherapy’s AI-powered chatbot provides initial assessments and therapy sessions, increasing access to mental health support in a region with a critical shortage of mental health professionals. TibuHealth, on the other hand, delivers affordable outpatient services via “minute clinics” in partner pharmacies in high-density neighbourhoods.

    Dorothy Ooko, Head of Communications and Public Affairs, Google Africa, said: “We are committed to supporting the growth of innovative startups, particularly those that are leveraging AI to address critical healthcare challenges. The Growth Academy: AI for Health program is a testament to this commitment, and we are excited to see the impact these startups will have on the future of healthcare.”

    The three-month program will provide participants with intensive training, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Startups will benefit from workshops on best practices for AI, leadership development, responsible innovation, product design, and customer acquisition. Additionally, Google experts from Research, Health, Verily, Fitbit, and DeepMind will offer one-on-one mentorship sessions and technical project support.

    Below are the participating startups, representing 13 countries from across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and how they’re using AI models and technology to improve patient care and advance medical research:

    • Aide (United Kingdom) is a digital service that helps patients and clinicians better understand and manage chronic disease, specifically comorbidity.
    • AmplifAI (Saudi Arabia) combines AI driven thermography and computer vision to create a standardised and objective assessment for diabetic foot ulcers.
    • Biorce (Portugal) is developing solutions to enhance clinical trials through the power of AI, having created Jarvis, a clinical AI assistant.
    • C the Signs (United Kingdom) is an AI cancer prediction platform that helps identify patients at risk of cancer at its earliest and most curable stages.
    • Callyope (France) develops speech-based remote patient monitoring solutions that help caretakers assess treatment efficacy and detect relapses in serious mental illnesses such as depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
    • Clear.bio (Netherlands) works to reverse diabetes type 2 by precision nutrition, providing best in class digital therapeutic based on real-time glucometry.
    • Ephion Health (Spain) develops digital biomarkers to ensure accurate disease monitoring and therapy assessment, through wearables data, clinical reports and AI for precise patient assessment.
    • Exakt Health (Germany) is a certified medical app for physiotherapy and evidence-based training with hyper-personalised treatment plans.
    • FiveLives (France) is a digital brain health platform for people aged 50+ to take control of their cognitive health, through combining clinically-validated brain health assessment and an engaging coaching program.
    • Healthtracka (Nigeria) is decentralising access to healthcare in Africa through remote medical diagnostics, connecting users with a seamless way to access at-home lab tests, receive clear results and doctors consultations.
    • HearMe (Poland) supports employees’ mental health through anonymous and secure 1:1 sessions with mental health professionals.
    • Juniver (United Kingdom) delivers on-demand help for eating disorders, with AI-powered interventions for urges, evidence-based education, personalised tools, peer support and telemedicine.
    • Mindgram (Poland) is a platform offering a holistic solution providing employees and their relatives with psychological and self-development support around the clock.
    • Motherbeing (Egypt) is a digital solution dedicated to Arab women’s sexual and reproductive health. The platform connects users with doctors, experts, personalised health education and an AI-powered health assistant.
    • Noah Labs (Germany) develops voice-based machine learning software for the early detection of decompensated heart failure.
    • Nui (Germany) is an app providing family caregivers with support through an intelligent chatbot that provides guidance to find answers to the most pressing questions.
    • O7 Therapy (Egypt) bridges the treatment gap with cutting-edge tech and top-tier mental health professionals. The O7 Therapy app offers instant, anonymous support via encrypted Chat, Audio and Video Sessions.
    • Powerful Medical (Slovakia) revolutionises cardiovascular diagnostics with its AI-driven platform, enabling healthcare professionals across the EU and beyond to diagnose and manage 39 cardiovascular conditions.
    • Research Grid (United Kingdom) is an automation engine enabling faster, more successful clinical trials by engineering smart software that safely automates back office admin across the full lifecycle.
    • Rofim (France) specialises in developing telemedicine software. The Rofim platform is a telemedicine platform designed to connect patients with healthcare professionals, enable diagnosis and improve access to care.
    • SYCAI Medical (Spain) develops medical device software with the aim of preventing the appearance of cancer in the abdomen non-invasively.
    • Thalia Psychotherapy (Kenya) is a mental health startup focused on integrating mental health services into primary healthcare systems.
    • TibuHealth (Kenya) delivers affordable outpatient services via “minute clinics” in partner pharmacies in high-density neighbourhoods.
    • Zoie Health (South Africa) is a digital health platform focused on providing underserved, high-need populations with affordable, accessible and healthcare.
  • Leading UK based talent development organisation Career Masterclass enters the Nigerian market

    Leading UK based talent development organisation Career Masterclass enters the Nigerian market

    UK based Career Masterclass – which has carved a place for itself in the careers market for democratisation of opportunities – enters the Nigerian market to offer quality career advice and training to established and aspiring professionals. It has already worked with leading companies including Google Africa and AG Leventis in Nigeria.

    Career Masterclass helps create a level playing field within the corporate world by arming middle level professionals with the right tools to help them to break the glass ceiling. It has worked with leading multinationals including Amazon, Deutsche Bank, Google and Visa in the UK, Nigeria, the US and Canada. Career Masterclass programmes are targeted at both companies and individuals.

    The Nigerian entity will offer a range of training programmes and tools including access to masterclasses from leading experts, content and resources and customised talent development programmes. It will also help connect with mentors and offer valuable insight on how to achieve your career goals.

    Speaking about opening its office in Nigeria, Bukola Adisa, the founder of Career Masterclass, who hails from Nigeria said, “Nigeria is an important market for us. We are a global platform but most of our users are from the UK, followed by Nigeria and the US. We also have substantial following in Canada and India. Having run career development programmes for leading multinationals in Nigeria and given the amount of interest we garnered, I believe it was time for us to launch our Nigerian entity.”

    The most popular training programmes in Nigeria are : Cracking the confidence code, the art of negotiation and navigating organisational politics.

     

    Speaking about her passion for democratisation of opportunities in the corporate world, Bukola, who hails from Nigeria, said, “I am both an immigrant and a woman and I have managed to break the glass ceiling to be the highest ranking Black professional in a leading international bank. I can do it and so can others. We, at Career Masterclass, want to share our insight, knowledge and experience so that others, like us, can benefit from it.”

    Launched as a UK based entity in 2015, Career Masterclass has an international outreach via its global platform. It holds both in-person training sessions for leading organisations and online events. The company has grown from strength to strength and plans to launch its crowdfunding later this month.