The African Development Bank and Google have formalised cooperation aimed at advancing digital transformation in Africa.

According to a statement, both parties signed a Letter of Intent during the Global Africa Business Initiative at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The agreement was a commitment to harness emerging technologies, extend and improve infrastructure, and refine talent and skills in the continent, the statement revealed.

It noted that while working with the African Development Bank, Google would offer technical assistance to bolster entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises in digitising their businesses, securing financing, mastering digital marketing, and advancing private sector development.

“Our journey from a two per cent telephony penetration in 1998 to today’s era of 4G, 5G, and AI signifies immense progress. With 70 per cent of Sub-Saharan Africans under 30, our focus is on catalysing businesses to create jobs and offer innovative solutions,” said AfDB’s President, Dr Akinwunmi Adesina.

Google’s Senior Vice President of Research, Technology and Society, Dr James Manyika, added, “With advanced technologies like AI, the most profound transformation is yet to come.

“Collaboration will be essential if Africa is to realise this opportunity, building for everyone and ensuring no-one is left behind. We are excited to collaborate with the African Development Bank to work towards this shared commitment.”

Punch

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