Emmanuel Ochayi
Three Nigerian startups among the 11 selected from across the continent to be part of Google’s prestigious ‘Africa AI First Accelerator’ program.
These startups are poised to play a significant role in harnessing the transformative power of artificial intelligence for the African continent and beyond.
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Famasi Africa, a startup working on an operating system for pharmacies in emerging markets, stands among the chosen few. Izifin, a Nigerian company providing comprehensive credit infrastructure via APIs for small businesses, has also secured its place. Not to be outdone, Vzy is revolutionizing website building with AI-driven tools that can craft sites in mere minutes.
In a statement, Google emphasized the potential of these startups, stating that they are leveraging cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence to tackle not only Africa’s challenges but also broader global issues.
The significance of AI in Africa’s future is underscored by a McKinsey report, which predicts that AI could contribute a staggering $1.3 trillion to Africa’s GDP by 2030.
So, what’s in store for these chosen startups? Over the next 10 weeks, they will embark on an accelerator journey facilitated by Google. Besides gaining access to Google’s AI expertise, they will receive a generous allocation of $350,000 in Google Cloud Credits, mentorship sessions, technical guidance, and networking opportunities to amplify their reach and impact.
Folarin Aiyegbusi, Head of Startup Ecosystem, Africa at Google, expressed Google’s commitment to AI innovation, stating, “AI is not only a powerful enabler, it’s also a major platform shift. That’s why we’re focused on making it easy and scalable for others to innovate with AI.”
One of the startups, Famasi Africa, envisions using AI-powered digital health solutions to reach underserved communities. Adeola Ayoola, CEO/Co-founder of Famasi Africa, expressed their excitement about joining the program, saying, “With Google’s mentorship, we’re confident of scaling our solutions, reaching more pharmacies, and ultimately improving healthcare outcomes.”
Among the other African startups selected are Avalon Health from South Africa, Chatbots Africa from Ghana, Dial Afrika Inc., and Fastagger Inc. from Kenya, as well as TeGarri Logistics from Ethiopia. Lengo AI from Senegal, Logistify AI from Uganda, and Anlescopepe, also from Ethiopia, complete the impressive lineup.
Google’s consistent support for African startups since 2017 has yielded remarkable results, with these startups collectively raising $263 million and creating over 2,800 job opportunities.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
