Google has launched a major effort to close Africa’s widening AI skills gap. The company introduced its new AI Skilling Blueprint for Africa on Wednesday, offering governments a clear roadmap to build national AI training programs. Google said the continent needs a stronger digital workforce as AI adoption accelerates, and the blueprint outlines how countries can train learners, implementers, and innovators who can support this shift.
The plan focuses on three levels of talent. Learners will gain basic AI literacy needed for everyday productivity. Implementers will learn how to use AI tools in workplaces across the public and private sectors. Innovators will receive advanced technical training to build AI solutions designed for African markets.
Google believes this structure will help countries develop talent at scale and move quickly into the next phase of digital growth. According to Doron Avni, Google’s Vice President of Government Affairs and Public Policy, Africa’s “AI moment is now,” and Google intends to remain a long-term partner.
To strengthen this effort, Google also announced $2.25 million in funding for UNECA, UN DESA, and PARIS21. The funds will help these groups create AI-ready public data sets and modernize national statistical systems. UNECA’s Executive Secretary, Claver Gatete, said better data will support evidence-based policymaking and help African countries make informed decisions about development. He added that a strong data foundation is essential for long-term growth.
Google is also supporting local training groups through the $7.5 million Google.org Skilling Fund. The first recipients include FATE Foundation, AIMS, JA Africa, and CyberSafe Foundation. These organizations will expand digital and AI education across the continent. FATE Foundation’s Executive Director, Adenike Adeyemi, said the partnership responds directly to Africa’s urgent need for deeper AI skills and will help prepare students and lecturers in several countries.
Nigeria is also moving forward with its own approach to AI. NITDA recently announced that it is developing a national AI governance framework in collaboration with innovators, startups, and industry leaders. The agency’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa, said Nigeria chose a collaborative model rather than a strict top-down approach, since broader involvement creates more sustainable outcomes. He noted that the country wants responsible and inclusive AI growth.
