Hi Ayodele here,

Over the past week, Africa’s AI landscape has seen major developments in strategy, skills, and innovation. Zimbabwe confirmed plans to launch its first National AI Strategy in October. Nigeria is expanding its talent pipeline through Google and GOMYCODE’s “Build with AI” program. South Africa introduced its first AI-powered teaching robot to modernize classrooms. And on the global stage, Japan pledged to train 30,000 AI engineers across Africa over the next three years.

This edition highlights how these moves reflect a broader push to strengthen talent, infrastructure, and international collaboration in shaping Africa’s AI future.

Let us get into it. In this edition:

• Zimbabwe to Launch National AI Strategy in October

• South Africa Launches First AI Teaching Robot for Classrooms

• Japan Unveils $5.5B AI Training Plan to Strengthen Africa Ties

• Google and GOMYCODE Launch Build with AI Program in Nigeria

Around Africa

Zimbabwe to Launch National AI Strategy in October

Zimbabwe will unveil its National Artificial Intelligence Strategy in October, aligning with its broader National Development Strategy One goals. ICT Minister Tatenda Mavetera confirmed the framework is complete and will incorporate recommendations from the inaugural AI Summit for Africa in Victoria Falls.

The strategy aims to drive digital transformation, support Zimbabwe’s ambition of becoming an upper-middle-income society by 2030, and strengthen continental collaboration on AI.

Why it matters
The launch positions Zimbabwe as a key player in Africa’s digital future, ensuring AI supports economic growth, sovereignty, and competitiveness while contributing to regional policy leadership.

Google and GOMYCODE Launch Build with AI Program in Nigeria

Google has partnered with edtech startup GOMYCODE to introduce the "Build with AI" program in Nigeria, aimed at equipping participants with hands-on AI skills. The initiative will cover AI tool integration, project-based learning, and career-ready training for developers, students, and entrepreneurs. It targets boosting the country’s AI talent pool and enhancing digital problem-solving capabilities.

Why it matters
By developing practical AI skills locally, this program helps close Nigeria’s AI talent gap, strengthens its tech workforce, and positions the country to better compete in the global AI economy.

South Africa Launches First AI Teaching Robot for Classrooms

South Africa has unveiled its first AI-powered teaching robot, designed to transform classroom learning. The robot can deliver lessons, engage students interactively, and assist teachers with curriculum delivery. Officials say it will help bridge teaching gaps, improve learning outcomes, and prepare students for a tech-driven future.

Why it matters
This innovation marks a step toward modernizing education in Africa, showing how AI can address teacher shortages and equip learners with future-ready skills.

Japan to Train 30,000 AI Engineers in Africa Over the Next 3 Years

Japan has launched a major initiative to train 30,000 AI engineers across Africa as part of its broader digital partnership with the continent. The program, unveiled at the Africa-Japan Summit, will focus on building advanced technical skills, strengthening local talent pipelines, and preparing African workforces for global AI opportunities. Alongside training, the plan will support digital infrastructure and innovation ecosystems to ensure long-term impact.

Why it matters
By prioritizing AI skills development, Japan is helping Africa bridge critical talent gaps, drive innovation, and compete in the global AI economy. This move also cements Japan’s role as a strategic partner in shaping Africa’s digital future.

Around the world

Meta Expands AI Translation for Creators

Meta has launched AI-powered translations globally, starting with English and Spanish for creators. The tool helps automatically translate content, making posts and videos more accessible to wider audiences. The rollout is part of Meta’s push to enhance cross-border communication and reach on its platforms.

Google Brings Gemini to Nest Devices

Google has announced that Gemini will power Nest smart speakers and displays, turning them into more advanced AI voice assistants. The update allows for natural back-and-forth conversations, smarter home automation, and personalized responses. Gemini integration will roll out first in the US before expanding globally.

Google Expands AI Mode Globally

Google has rolled out AI Mode worldwide, adding new agentic features that let it take on more proactive tasks for users. The update enhances capabilities across Gmail, Docs, and other Workspace apps, making the AI more interactive and task-oriented. This marks a step toward deeper integration of AI assistants into daily productivity tools.

Around the Web - Top Picks

• The Computer Science Dream Has Become a Nightmare

  What was once seen as a golden ticket to lucrative tech careers, computer science education is now facing major cracks. Students are flooding into CS programs, but many are struggling with outdated curricula, intense workloads, and uncertainty about jobs in an AI-transformed economy. The gap between expectations and reality is leaving many disillusioned and questioning the value of the degree.

  Read the full piece: The Computer Science Dream Has Become a Nightmare

• MIT Study Finds AI Use Reduces Critical Thinking

  A new MIT study reveals that reliance on AI tools led to a 47% drop in critical thinking skills among participants. While AI boosted speed and efficiency in task completion, it also discouraged deeper problem-solving and independent reasoning. Researchers warn that unchecked dependence on AI could erode essential cognitive skills over time.

  Read the full piece: MIT Study on AI and Critical Thinking

• Brain Experts Warn About ChatGPT’s Impact on Cognitive Health

  In a discussion between Dr. Daniel Amen and Dr. Terry Sejnowski, experts examined how tools like ChatGPT affect the brain. An MIT study showed a 47% drop in brain activity when people used ChatGPT for writing compared to unassisted writing. The doctors warned that reduced cognitive load could raise dementia risk and overuse by children might weaken brain development. They emphasized that AI should be a collaborative tool, not a substitute for thinking.

  Watch the full video: Brain Experts WARNING: Watch This Before Using ChatGPT Again! 

Seen This?

Chat is nice but voice is the future...Blue is aiming to replace Apple’s Siri.

Upcoming African AI Events

GITEX NIgeria
Date: 1-4 September 2025
Location: Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria
Theme: Gitex is where tech leaders unite to explore opportunities and showcase innovations. It's the ideal platform to connect with key players, build meaningful connections.
Link: GITEX Nigeria

Africa AI Conference (APAIC) 2025
Date: 25-28 August, 2025
Location: Mombasa, Kenya
Theme: this conference will bring together thought leaders, policymakers, and innovators to shape the future of ethical AI and data governance in Africa.
Link: Africa AI

Pan African AI Summit
Dates: 23-24 September, 2025
Location: Accra, Ghana
Theme: This inaugural summit aims to bring together leaders, innovators, and enthusiasts to explore the transformative potential of AI, including Generative AI, Predictive AI, and Machine Learning.
Link: Pan African AI

AI Opportunities

• UNDP Compute Accelerator Programme - Supporting 120 African AI ventures

• Luno – Senior Manager - Conversational AI and Knowledge Base, South Africa

• Hugo  – Project manager, AI Operations, Nigeria

• Moniepoint Group  – Senior Data Scientist

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