Burkina Faso's Sahal Tech Partners to Build AI for African Languages

Sahal Tech Innovation Labs, based in Burkina Faso, has announced a new strategic partnership with Old Rock Group. This collaboration aims to significantly advance the development of artificial intelligence technologies specifically tailored for African languages. The agreement was formalized in Ouagadougou and centers on supporting the Sahal African Language Data Platform (SALDP).

The SALDP initiative is crucial for bridging the digital divide for many African communities. It focuses on creating robust language databases and AI capabilities for languages that are currently underrepresented in global digital ecosystems. Initially, the project will prioritize four key languages: Mooré, Dioula, Fulfuldé, and Bambara, all widely spoken across the Sahel region and beyond.

Old Rock Group will provide comprehensive support to Sahal Tech, encompassing strategic planning, technical infrastructure development, and essential capacity building through specialized training. This partnership is designed to foster local expertise in AI development, thereby strengthening Africa's linguistic and digital sovereignty. By building AI solutions within Africa, the initiative seeks to reduce reliance on foreign-developed technologies and empower more Africans to engage with digital services in their native tongues.

This effort is part of Sahal Tech's broader vision to cultivate African-origin technology. The company has previously launched platforms like AFRINA Chat and TEKRÉ, and its STIC'26 innovation program drew over 600 projects from 23 African nations, demonstrating a continent-wide commitment to fostering local tech innovation.