The United Arab Emirates has launched a sweeping $1 billion artificial intelligence initiative designed to accelerate digital transformation and modernize government services across Africa.

Announced during the G20 summit in Johannesburg, the “AI for Development” program aims to deploy advanced AI tools and infrastructure to improve services in education, healthcare, agriculture, digital identity systems, infrastructure management and climate adaptation.

The initiative will be executed through the Abu Dhabi Exports Office (ADEX), part of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, in cooperation with the UAE Foreign Aid Agency.

UAE Minister of State Saeed Bin Mubarak Al Hajeri underscored that the project is rooted in a vision of inclusive and responsible AI, positioning technology as a driver of long-term human development rather than a purely commercial pursuit.

Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan highlighted the UAE’s commitment to forging finance-and-technology partnerships aimed at supporting emerging economies. The UAE has rapidly expanded economic ties with Africa in recent years and is now leveraging its growing AI capabilities to deepen collaboration.

Beyond infrastructure investment, the program is expected to provide computing capacity, technical expertise and global partnerships, enabling African governments to modernize services and enhance efficiency.

The move marks a significant step in the UAE’s wider strategy to establish itself as a global technology enabler, particularly for developing nations poised to benefit from AI-driven growth. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.