The potential of AI is growing far beyond making work easy. AI-powered translation tools are becoming increasingly sophisticated. There are system developments that can generate human-like texts, summarize complex documents, and even engage in nuanced conversation.
AI is also breaking down cultural and linguistic divides and those who do not have control of it may struggle to keep the originality of their languages.
But Nigeria is not letting any of that happen as Africa’s foremost data science and artificial intelligence organization, Data Science Nigeria, DSN, is developing a suite of AI-driven innovations designed to bridge the digital divide and preserve indigenous languages.
The initiative aims to ensure that artificial intelligence, AI, can understand and communicate in African languages.
Through audio recordings, images, videos, and text, DSN is building AI models that deeply understand and respond in African languages, ensuring equitable access to digital solutions across healthcare, education, agriculture, and finance.
Founder and CEO of DSN, Bayo Adekanmbi, who emphasized that language is fundamental to identity and technology, stated that “AI is shaping the future, but if it only understands dominant global languages, it risks creating a new form of digital colonialism. At DSN, through our initiative, EqualyzAI, we are democratizing AI so it learns and functions in African languages just as naturally as a child does.”
Innovations driving AI inclusion in Africa
DSN’s EqualyzAI unit is leading efforts to collect, structure, and digitize African languages, ensuring AI can serve local communities effectively.
Some key innovations include: AfroSLM 1.0 – A language model designed to enhance financial literacy in Yoruba and Hausa.
uLearn – A generative AI tool enabling teachers to create lesson plans, notes, and quizzes in both English and local languages.
Speech Model for Accented Nigerian English – An advanced AI-driven speech recognition system optimized for understanding Nigerian accents.
DataCollect – A platform for gathering diverse linguistic data for AI solution that can understand and interact in African languages.
Real-world impact of localized AI
The project has immense benefits for different sectors including: Empowering Farmers: AI can provide real-time, localized agricultural insights on weather, soil quality, and pest control through voice-based interactions in native languages.
Boosting Small Businesses: Market traders can receive AI-driven financial planning advice in their language, helping them make informed savings and investment decisions.
Revolutionizing Education: AI-powered tools can help teachers create personalized learning strategies tailored to students’ needs and strengths in their native languages.
Preserving African culture
Adekanmbi also stressed the importance of culturally aware AI, stating: “Today’s AI reflects Western norms, from its gestures to its understanding of human interactions. At EqualyzAI, we are ensuring that AI learns our culture—our greetings, traditions, and linguistic nuances—so it can truly serve African communities.”
Inclusive digital future
As the world marks International Mother Language Day, DSN is calling on governments, tech innovators, and stakeholders to join the mission of ensuring African languages are not left behind in the AI revolution.
Adekanmbi noted: “We envision a future where language is a bridge, not a barrier, in the digital world. Whether in Nigeria, Senegal, or Mozambique, AI should serve everyone equally.”
