Nigerians, Ghanaians, and others will participate in Google's inaugural AI accelerator program.

Google has recently announced the inaugural cohort for its Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First program. The 11 businesses, selected from a wide range of unique talent, are utilizing state-of-the-art Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to tackle the challenges faced by Africa as well as global issues at large. 

The McKinsey analysis underscores the significant impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in Africa, positing that by 2030, AI has the potential to contribute an estimated $1.3 trillion to the continent's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The firms that have been chosen will participate in a 10-week accelerator program. In addition to leveraging Google's experience in artificial intelligence and receiving a $350,000 allocation in Google Cloud Credits, participants will have the advantage of mentorship sessions, technical guidance, and networking opportunities to augment their influence and effectiveness.

One of the chosen firms is Famasi Africa, based in Nigeria. This startup is focused on developing the operating system (OS) specifically designed for pharmacies operating in emerging markets.

Chatbots Africa, based in Ghana, is in the forefront of facilitating the transfer of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) into the era of Social Commerce. This is achieved through the implementation of AI-driven online storefronts.

Dial Afrika Inc, a company based in Kenya, specializes in developing customer support systems that are tailored to meet the needs of global organizations, with a specific emphasis on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMBs) in Africa.

Fastagger Inc, a company based in Kenya, leverages artificial intelligence (AI) technology to enhance sales and foster customer loyalty, hence facilitating the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Garri Logistics, a company based in Ethiopia, is focused on the digitalization of freight brokerage and transport services.

Izifin, a Nigerian company, offers a comprehensive credit infrastructure solution for small enterprises through the use of application programming interfaces (APIs).

Lengo AI, a company based in Senegal, is set to introduce the inaugural Data-Driven Operating System (OS) specifically designed for the informal sector.

Logistify AI, a company based in Uganda, focuses on the task of minimizing inventory losses within industrial facilities.

Telliscope, a company based in Ethiopia, provides a business analytics platform that incorporates artificial intelligence capabilities.

Vzy (Nigeria) is an innovative company that is transforming the process of website creation through the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI)-driven tools. These tools have the capability to construct fully functional websites within a matter of minutes.

According to Folarin Aiyegbusi, the Head of Startup Ecosystem in Africa, Google has been engaged in the development of artificial intelligence (AI) for more than ten years. The company has effectively demonstrated the practicality of AI in its own products as well as for external developers. Artificial Intelligence (AI) serves as a significant catalyst for progress and represents a substantial transformation in the field of technology. Therefore, our primary objective is to prioritize the facilitation of seamless and expansive opportunities for individuals to engage in innovative practices including artificial intelligence. The firms selected for the 'AI First' program exemplify this goal by utilizing AI in innovative ways to tackle both local and global concerns. We are enthusiastic about providing support and enhancing the influence of their endeavors.

Regarding the selection process, Adeola Ayoola, the CEO and Co-founder of Famasi Africa, expressed that their organization aims to expand the implementation of AI-powered digital health solutions in order to extend their reach to a greater number of underserved populations. Participating in the Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First program signifies a substantial advancement in the pursuit of achieving that aspiration. With the guidance and support of Google's mentorship program, we possess a strong belief in our ability to expand our solutions, extend our reach to a greater number of pharmacies, and ultimately enhance healthcare outcomes.

Avalon Health, a healthcare company based in South Africa, is implementing a strategy to expand the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled digital healthcare products in order to extend their reach to the entire population of South Africa.By leveraging the assistance and guidance provided by the Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First program, we are confident in our ability to expand the reach of our solutions, thereby guaranteeing equitable access to high-quality healthcare services for all individuals in South Africa.

According to Japheth Dibo, the Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Dial Afrika in Kenya, the company is actively transforming the landscape of customer care in Africa through the utilization of advanced artificial intelligence-driven solutions.The opportunity to participate in the Google for Startups Accelerator: AI First program will enable us to utilize sophisticated AI technologies in order to actualize our goal. Through the provision of support and coaching, our objective is to bring about a revolutionary transformation in the realm of customer service. Our ultimate goal is to empower businesses throughout the African continent by providing them with the necessary skills to not only succeed but also beyond expectations.