In a move that empowers millions of Africans, Google has expanded its voice search and translation capabilities to encompass 15 additional African languages. This innovative step bridges the digital divide and allows an estimated 300 million people to interact with the internet using their native tongue.
Previously unheard voices can now be recognized by Google. Languages like Yoruba, Hausa, and Igbo, spoken by hundreds of millions across West Africa, are now supported by Voice Search and Gboard’s talk-to-type feature. Translate dictation also expands its reach, offering voice input for these languages alongside others like Chichewa, Somali, and Twi.
This advancement isn’t the first of its kind for Google in Africa. Gboard already boasts custom keyboards for over 200 African languages, while Translate facilitates automatic translation for more than 60 languages spoken on the continent.
The secret behind this success? Artificial intelligence, specifically multilingual speech recognition. Google’s AI mimics how a child learns language, associating spoken sounds with written characters. This allows users to speak in their native tongue and have their words seamlessly translated into text.
Beyond Language: Investing in Africa’s AI Future
Google’s commitment to Africa extends beyond language accessibility. Recognizing the vast potential of AI, Google.org, the company’s philanthropic arm, has pledged $5.8 million to support AI skilling and education across sub-Saharan Africa.
This initiative aims to equip workers and students with foundational AI and cybersecurity skills. Additionally, it will empower non-profit leaders and the public sector to develop and utilize AI responsibly. Funding recipients include organizations like the Data Scientists Network Foundation, which will create a program to train unemployed Nigerians in digital and technological skills, ultimately paving the way for advanced data and AI expertise.
This investment builds upon Google’s ongoing commitment to digital skills development in Africa. Google.org has previously allocated $20 million to support organizations that help Africans build their digital toolkits.
By making technology more inclusive and fostering AI skills development, Google is taking a significant step towards a more connected and empowered Africa.
