UAE Launches $1 Billion AI for Development Initiative in Africa

The UAE announced a $1 billion artificial intelligence initiative for Africa during the G20 summit in Johannesburg. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, represented the UAE at the gathering and outlined the country's vision for global economic cooperation and digital development across emerging markets.

Speaking at the summit's opening session on "Building Our Economies: The Role of Trade, Development Finance and Debt Burden," Sheikh Khaled delivered greetings from UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and thanked South African President Cyril Ramaphosa for the invitation to participate.

The Crown Prince emphasized that such meetings embody global partnership and support market connectivity while deepening economic integration across different countries and regions. He said the UAE works continuously with partners to strengthen global economic cooperation and establish a balanced, transparent international trade system.

The centerpiece announcement was the "AI for Development" initiative, which allocates $1 billion specifically for artificial intelligence projects across African nations. The program aims to boost economic and social development by strengthening digital infrastructure and improving government services to increase productivity and quality of life.

This funding represents a significant commitment to Africa's digital transformation at a time when many developing nations struggle to access advanced technology resources. The initiative could help bridge the digital divide and position African countries to participate more effectively in the global digital economy.

Sheikh Khaled stressed the UAE's focus on supporting developing nations' access to better financing solutions and developing projects in advanced technology, energy, health, and agriculture. The approach emphasizes capacity building, knowledge sharing, community empowerment, and creating quality economic opportunities that support comprehensive development.

The UAE delegation included key government officials such as Minister of State for International Cooperation Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemy, Investment Minister Mohamed Hassan Al Suwaidi, and several other senior ministers and advisors.

This marks the UAE's sixth participation in a G20 summit. The country previously attended summits in Brazil (2024), India (2023), Indonesia (2022), Saudi Arabia (2020), and France (2011). The repeated invitations reflect the UAE's growing influence in global economic discussions and its role as a bridge between developed and developing economies.

The AI initiative comes as African nations seek to accelerate digital adoption and economic diversification. With proper implementation, the billion-dollar commitment could help establish the UAE as a key technology partner for Africa while creating new trade and investment opportunities for both regions.