Nigeria has launched the Atlas Network, an initiative aimed at developing artificial intelligence (AI) systems that better support Africa’s languages, cultures and knowledge.

Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, announced the initiative at the 7th Ordinary Session of the Conference of Plenipotentiaries of the African Telecommunications Union (ATU) in Abuja on Thursday.

Tijani said the platform would help African countries develop AI tools that address local needs and reduce reliance on technology solutions developed outside the continent.

“Artificial intelligence represents one of the greatest opportunities for Africa’s transformation,” he said, adding that fewer than two per cent of African languages are currently supported by modern AI systems, despite Africa being home to a large share of the world’s languages.

The Atlas Network will bring together governments, researchers, universities, technology companies and other stakeholders to develop large language models designed for African users.

Tijani said the aim is

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