Kashifu Inuwa, Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), urged Africa to embrace small language models (SLMs) as a practical path for AI growth. He emphasized that SLMs suit Africa’s infrastructure challenges and can drive inclusive innovation.
Speaking at the 2024 Conversational AI Summit in Lagos, Inuwa called for a focus on local solutions. He explained that large language models (LLMs) like GPT-4 dominate global AI but require vast data, high energy, and advanced infrastructure. These demands remain unrealistic for many African nations.
Inuwa highlighted that developers are already exploring SLMs to bridge this technology gap. These models run on low-end devices and need less computational power. They offer wider access to universities, startups, and government institutions across Africa.
He encouraged African developers and policymakers to lead efforts in building culturally relevant models. Global AI tools often overlook Africa’s linguistic diversity. Inuwa believes SLMs can support local languages like Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, and more. These models can strengthen digital inclusion and preserve culture.
Inuwa outlined a future where African-built AI becomes globally competitive. He urged countries to stop depending entirely on foreign technology. Nations that develop their own models will shape their digital futures and influence global AI trends. Attendees at the summit—experts, academics, and business leaders—strongly supported his vision.
He also pointed out the privacy and security benefits of local models. SLMs built in-country can keep data within national borders. This improves trust and reduces misuse. Inuwa encouraged African governments to fund open-source AI research and reward developers solving local problems.
He stressed the need for collaboration across sectors. NITDA is already working with partners to promote responsible AI use in Nigeria. According to Inuwa, funding, training, and policy support are essential to grow the continent’s AI ecosystem.
Inuwa ended with a call to action for young African innovators. He urged them not to fear global tech giants. Instead, they should build small, powerful tools that solve real community problems.
With leaders like Inuwa championing homegrown AI, Africa could unlock its full digital potential. SLMs offer a realistic, affordable, and culturally rich path to sustainable innovation across the continent.
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