Meta has announced the launch of the Llama Impact Accelerator program in Sub-Saharan Africa, aiming to foster the development of open-source AI solutions. The initiative is designed to support startups in creating scalable AI tools that address regional priorities such as agriculture, healthcare, safety and security, financial inclusion, education, and public service delivery.
The accelerator will take place over six weeks in Nigeria, Kenya, Senegal, and South Africa. It offers equity-free funding, technical training, mentorship, business advisory support, and connections to local policy ecosystems.
Balkissa Idé Siddo, Public Policy Director for Sub-Saharan Africa at Meta stated: "Africa is not just the future – it’s a present full of promise and potential. At Meta, we believe that open-source AI is key to unlocking this potential by democratizing innovation and creating technology that truly serves the needs of diverse communities."
The program partners with national AI and innovation agencies across Sub-Saharan Africa including Nigeria's Federal Ministry of Communications; Senegal's Ministry of Communication; Kenya's Ministry of Information; and South Africa's Department of Public Service Administration. Local incubators and training providers are also involved.
The initiative will provide resources for developers to contribute to digital infrastructure development addressing local challenges while influencing emerging AI policies. Each accelerator concludes with a Demo Day where teams pitch their prototypes to experts. Winning teams receive further funding and support for product refinement.
This launch reflects Meta's commitment to advancing global open AI innovation while supporting sustainable tech ecosystems in Africa.