Sama and University of Nairobi Partner to Propel Generative AI in Africa

Sama, a global leader in data annotation and model evaluation for artificial intelligence (AI) models, has announced a strategic partnership with the University of Nairobi (UoN). This collaboration aims to drive advancements in the Generative AI (GenAI) industry in Kenya, positioning the country at the forefront of AI innovation in Africa.

Pioneering AI Collaboration

The partnership between Sama and UoN is a significant milestone for the AI community in Kenya and Africa at large. By combining Sama’s expertise in AI data services with UoN’s academic excellence and research capabilities, the collaboration seeks to create a robust ecosystem for GenAI development.

Goals and Objectives

The primary objectives of this partnership include:

Research and Development: Establishing joint research programs to explore new frontiers in GenAI, focusing on creating innovative solutions tailored to the African context.
Capacity Building: Developing training programs and workshops to equip students and professionals with the necessary skills in AI and data science. This includes hands-on training in data annotation, model evaluation, and other critical aspects of GenAI.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Encouraging the development of AI-driven startups and fostering an environment that supports innovation. This involves providing mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities to aspiring entrepreneurs.
Community Engagement: Promoting awareness and understanding of AI among the general public, ensuring that the benefits of AI advancements are widely accessible and understood.

Statements from Key Stakeholders

Wendy Gonzalez, CEO of Sama, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership: “We are thrilled to collaborate with the University of Nairobi to advance Generative AI in Kenya. This partnership aligns with our mission to leverage AI for social good and create opportunities for local talent to thrive in the global AI landscape.”

Professor Stephen Kiama, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nairobi, highlighted the significance of the collaboration: “This partnership with Sama is a testament to our commitment to excellence in research and innovation. By working together, we can drive meaningful advancements in AI that will benefit not only Kenya but the entire continent.”

Impact on the African AI Landscape

The strategic partnership between Sama and UoN is expected to have far-reaching impacts on the AI landscape in Africa. By fostering local talent and driving research and innovation, the collaboration aims to position Kenya as a hub for AI development and attract further investments in the technology sector.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, Sama and UoN plan to expand their collaboration to include other academic institutions and industry partners across Africa. By building a network of AI experts and resources, they hope to create a sustainable ecosystem that supports continuous growth and development in the field of Generative AI.

Conclusion

The partnership between Sama and the University of Nairobi marks a pivotal moment in the advancement of AI in Africa. By combining their strengths, the two institutions are set to drive innovation, create opportunities, and pave the way for a brighter future powered by AI.