The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has unveiled a major $1 billion investment initiative aimed at accelerating artificial intelligence (AI) adoption and enhancing government services across Africa. The announcement—delivered by Saeed bin Mubarak Al Hajeri, UAE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs—was made during the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, signaling a significant expansion of the Gulf nation’s digital and geopolitical engagement on the continent.
This new commitment places the UAE among the most influential foreign investors supporting Africa’s technological transformation. Speaking at the summit, Al Hajeri emphasized that the initiative is designed not only to drive digital progress but also to equip African nations with the tools needed to navigate the rapidly evolving global AI landscape.
According to Al Hajeri, the investment package will focus on strengthening digital foundations across multiple sectors, including governance, education, healthcare, agriculture, digital identity, and climate adaptability. He noted that the UAE intends to provide African governments with access to advanced AI computing power, specialized technical expertise, and partnerships with leading global technology institutions. These resources, he stressed, will play a vital role in helping African countries overcome long-standing developmental challenges.
The UAE has spent billions building its own AI capabilities domestically and across the United States. As Al Hajeri pointed out, it is now the fourth-largest investor in Africa, reflecting its long-term strategy of building influence through development-focused partnerships.
By integrating AI into essential public services, the initiative is expected to significantly boost administrative efficiency, strengthen data systems, and modernize service delivery across the continent. Experts say these improvements could enhance Africa’s competitiveness globally, particularly as demand for AI-driven solutions continues to grow.
One of the most promising areas is digital identity. Improved digital ID frameworks could make it easier for citizens to access government services, financial products, healthcare, and social programs—an especially important development in countries where large segments of the population remain undocumented or underserved.
The UAE’s initiative also highlights a broader message: the intention to ensure that emerging innovations contribute to reducing global inequality. “Our goal now is to ensure these capabilities benefit partners across the global South, and that no country is left behind in the AI age,” Al Hajeri said.
By targeting education, agriculture, climate management, and public-sector efficiency, the UAE’s $1 billion AI plan is poised to support Africa’s digital evolution while deepening strategic ties across the continent.
