What stood out most was the sense of belonging , seeing so many talented Africans in one space was inspiring and encouraging. The mentorship opportunities and collaborations that started at the Indaba continue to shape my academic and career journey. It reminded me that Africa has both the talent and the drive to contribute meaningfully to the global AI landscape. The Indaba didn’t just help me learn; it motivated me to give back, mentor others, and be part of growing this community.

Ophelia Dankyi

Attending the annual Indaba was a life changing experience for me. It was more than just a conference, it was a community where I got inspired. I had the chance to learn from world class researchers while also connecting with peers from across Africa who share the same passion for advancing AI on the continent. The Indaba gave me knowledge that I could not have accessed on my own, but even more importantly, it gave me confidence. Being part of that space made me realize that African voices and ideas matter in the global conversation on AI. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity, and I believe the Indaba is planting seeds that will transform not only individuals like me, but the future of science and technology in Africa.

Selina Kadakwiza, PHD student

The Indaba showed me that Africa doesn’t just need AI. AI needs Africa. Our languages, data, problems, and ways of knowing have so much to offer global machine learning.

Dr Yazid HAMBALLY YACOUBA

Artificial intelligence offers significant opportunities to enhance lives globally, but these benefits are fully achieved only when the technology is widely adopted. Organizations like DLI are playing a major role to accelerate AI diffusion across Africa by bringing practitioners together and fostering collaboration

Gates Foundation

The DLI was an important moment for us to launch Masakhane African Languages Hub in the space where the idea of Masakhane started – a full circle moment. We look forward to continuously being part of DLI to ensure the growth of the community.

Masakhane AI Hub

The Deep Learning Indaba was a unique opportunity to engage closely with those leading the way in ML research and development across the continent – providing invaluable insights for how we can ensure our work is responsive to the needs and priorities of this ecosystem.

Askya Investment Partners

The experience as a sponsor offered meaningful engagement with the African AI community and sparked valuable discussions around inclusive AI, especially in connection with our community initiative, Dvoice. The event provided a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas with researchers, industry leaders, and practitioners from diverse backgrounds. What stood out most was the shared commitment to advancing inclusive AI and ensuring that innovation reflects the richness of African cultures and languages. We believe this collaboration plays an important role in strengthening the ecosystem, and we are grateful to be part of it.

ToumAI

The experience as a sponsor offered meaningful engagement with the African AI community and sparked valuable discussions around inclusive AI, especially in connection with our community initiative, Dvoice. The event provided a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas with researchers, industry leaders, and practitioners from diverse backgrounds. What stood out most was the shared commitment to advancing inclusive AI and ensuring that innovation reflects the richness of African cultures and languages. We believe this collaboration plays an important role in strengthening the ecosystem, and we are grateful to be part of it.

ToumAI