Tech

Association to promote responsible AI practice launched in South Africa

Published

12 months ago

June 5, 2023

An association aimed at responsible practice of Artificial Intelligence and promoting the advancement of responsible AI, has been formed in South Africa.

It is known as the Artificial Intelligence Association (SAAIA). Dr Nick Bradshaw, the founder of the body, says the association seeks to “unite practitioners across commercial, government, academic, startup and NGO sectors and to encourage stakeholders to adopt AI.”

Bradshaw said in a statement that the challenges and opportunities AI and related smart technologies could bring to South Africa for both citizens and the wider economy needed to be harnessed.

“From hype to a global reality, the SAAIA vision has been shaped by analysing the global and local landscape, identifying needs and filling the blanks with research,” he said.

‘’Our vision is evidence-based with responsible, human-centric AI as its foundation. The SAAIA mission is to engage both individuals and organisations, novices and experts, those who are connected and not connected so no one is left behind.

“It is of vital importance that the opportunities Artificial Intelligence presents are possible and available for everyone to embrace.

“Our research has shown that AI and related automation technologies are currently impacting 120+ traditional industries globally AND creating new opportunities and challenges in timescale never seen before.

“The association also wants to serve as the voice of the industry, provide analysis and research to inform strategy and decision making and help National, Provincial & City Governments with policy making.

“It also seeks to connect SMMEs to funding to create new companies and jobs, attract FDI to South Africa as the 4IR gateway to Africa, help African smart tech companies find markets abroad, showcase the best of South African AI Innovation & Research, promote debate on inclusion, ethics, regulation & standards and share best practice & education resources for all,” Bradshaw said.

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Tech

Google relaunches Hustle Academy with AI focus to empower African SMBs

Published

9 hours ago

May 16, 2024

Akanimoh Etim

Google has relaunched the 2024 cohort of its Hustle Academy, a programme dedicated to accelerating the growth of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Making the announcement on Thursday, Google said it is opening of applications for the Hustle Academy with a special focus on using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to provide comprehensive business education, mentorship, and networking opportunities to SMBs.

According to Kristy Grant, Head of B2B marketing for Sub-Saharan Africa at Google, the 2024 cohort of the programme introduces a significant upgrade – business-focused AI training integrated directly into the curriculum.

“This year, the new AI modules focus on data-driven decisions, optimising operations, and building AI-powered marketing strategies,” Grant said.

“AI holds immense potential for African small and medium-sized businesses SMBs, enabling them to drive innovation, increase efficiency, and unlock new levels of economic growth.

“The Hustle Academy has supported over 10,000 businesses who have gone ahead to raise funding and create jobs since inception.

“By incorporating AI into our curriculum, we aim to further amplify this impact, equipping SMBs to harness AI technologies for improved business performance and economic progress,” Grant emphasized.

She added that applications for the 2024 Hustle Academy cohort are open to SMBs in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa.

Tech

Latin America’s biggest payment processor PayRetailers expands into Africa

Published

2 days ago

May 15, 2024

Akanimoh Etim

Latin America’s biggest payment processor, PayRetailers, has announced its expansion into Africa with coverage across four countries, Rwanda, Zambia, Uganda, and Tanzania.

A statement by its Chief Operating & Digital Officer, Lorenzo Pellegrino, said by expanding into Africa will offer customers a unified payment solution that will be a game changer for cross-border online merchants looking at Africa as their next move for strategic growth.

He said to strengthen its presence in the continent, PayRetailers is activating its payment processing functions that will “offer a simple, user-friendly, and scalable experience to businesses looking to grow their regional operations and give them access to major local methods like SPENN, Airtel, and MTN.”

“This market is increasingly connected and mobile and destined for strong growth, which is why PayRetailers, in its mission to increase financial inclusion and continue supporting business growth in emerging markets, has decided to activate its networks in the region and drive this exciting era of prosperity,” Pellegrino said.

“As a part of our strategic expansion, we are extending our coverage to four markets in Africa, at least to start with. Over the coming months, we plan to steadily expand our operation in the continent, which is experiencing incredible growth in the payments industry and has massive potential for merchants looking to diversify and broaden their consumer base.

“Using the stellar and continuous growth we have experienced in LATAM as our guide, we are well-poised to help businesses thrive faster and more sustainably.

“We recognize the immense potential and significance of venturing into these dynamic markets.

“Each new addition to our market coverage is a gateway into untapped opportunities and strengthened partnerships, ensuring our sustained growth and global relevance.

“Our imminent expansion into additional countries across West, North, and Southern Africa underscores our commitment to empowering our clients and connecting them with diverse consumer bases across the continent.

“From May onward, businesses will be able to operate in the region using PayRetailers for their online users, representing a major milestone for its client portfolio and its innovation strategy for 2024,” the statement said.