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UAE Pledges $1 Billion to Expand AI Across Africa at G20 Summit

The initiative focuses on applying AI to public services to support national development priorities.

Overview

  • The pledge was announced at the G20 leaders’ summit in Johannesburg, where the UAE participated as an invited guest.
  • Media accounts differ on who made the announcement, with CNA citing Minister Saeed Bin Mubarak Al Hajeri and UAE outlets attributing it to Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed on behalf of the president.
  • UAE reporting says delivery will run through the Abu Dhabi Exports Office and the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development in cooperation with the Emirates Agency for International Aid.
  • Areas cited for deployment include education, healthcare, climate adaptation, agriculture and infrastructure, framed as practical AI applications rather than pilots.
  • Detailed project lists, recipient countries, disbursement schedules and oversight mechanisms have not been published, as the UAE highlights its broader Africa ties, including about $107 billion in 2024 trade and over $118 billion in investments from 2020–2024, alongside domestic plans for a major data-centre hub.