Africa's $10B AI Plan to Create 40 Million Jobs by 2035

Africa just secured a massive vote of confidence in its digital future, with a $10 billion initiative designed to unlock millions of jobs through artificial intelligence.

The African Development Bank and the United Nations Development Programme announced the AI 10 Billion Initiative at the Nairobi AI Forum in February 2026. By 2035, the partnership aims to create up to 40 million new jobs across the continent while positioning Africa as a global leader in responsible AI innovation.

The plan tackles AI adoption from every angle. Investments will flow into tech training programs, regional data centers, policy development, and startup funding to ensure communities across Africa can participate in and benefit from the AI revolution.

Nicholas Williams from the African Development Bank put it simply: the initiative ensures "Africa is not left behind in the AI era." Instead of watching from the sidelines, African nations will build their own AI solutions tailored to local needs and opportunities.

The roadmap focuses on five key building blocks: data infrastructure, computing power, workforce skills, ethical governance, and investment capital. Each element works together to create sustainable growth rather than quick fixes.

Governments from Kenya to Italy, along with the European Union and private sector partners, are already on board. The collaborative approach brings together the expertise and resources needed to make ambitious goals achievable.

The Ripple Effect

The economic impact could be transformative. Experts project the initiative could add $1 trillion to Africa's GDP by 2035, lifting entire communities through new industries and opportunities.

Young people and women will receive special focus in skills training and entrepreneurship programs. By investing in those who have historically faced barriers, the initiative multiplies its impact across families and communities.

The African Development Bank will spend the next 10 months meeting with governments and businesses across the continent to forge new partnerships. Each conversation brings the vision closer to reality, turning billions in investment into millions of livelihoods improved.

Africa's AI future is being built right now, one partnership and one training program at a time.