Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming industries worldwide, and Africa is poised to harness its potential for economic growth, healthcare, agriculture, and innovation. However, despite AI’s global advancements, Africa remains underrepresented in AI research and development.
To address this gap, Makerere University has launched the Center for Artificial Intelligence and Data Science (Mak-CAD), a hub dedicated to driving AI innovation on the continent.
Under the theme “Building Responsible AI Research and Innovations for Impact,” the Center aims to develop AI solutions tailored to Africa’s unique challenges, enhance local expertise, and integrate AI into policy frameworks. With strong backing from international partners and a commitment to ethical AI practices, Mak-CAD is set to revolutionize Africa’s technological landscape.
AI research in Africa has historically faced challenges, including limited funding and infrastructure. Mak-CAD seeks to bridge this gap by becoming a leading AI research hub, fostering collaboration among African researchers, students, and international AI experts.
Dr Joyce Nakatumba Nabende, the Centre’s Principal Investigator, highlighted the significance of AI research that is specifically designed to address Africa’s needs:
“We started this journey at a time when AI had not yet gained mainstream attention. Our focus was on leveraging AI to solve real-world problems, even before the hype.”
Mak-CAD will focus on key sectors where AI can drive transformative change. In healthcare, AI-powered diagnostics and predictive analytics will enhance disease detection and management. In agriculture, AI-driven tools for crop monitoring, pest control, and yield prediction will strengthen food security.
Natural Language Processing (NLP) will leverage AI models trained in African languages to improve communication and accessibility. Additionally, AI solutions in climate action will support environmental monitoring and disaster prediction, contributing to sustainability and resilience.
To support this research, Mak-CAD will operate through two specialized labs: the Makerere Artificial Intelligence Lab in the Department of Computer Science and the Marconi Machine Learning Lab in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. These labs will serve as centres for cutting-edge AI research and innovation.
One of Africa’s biggest challenges in AI development is the lack of skilled professionals. Without a strong AI workforce, the continent risks falling behind in the global AI revolution. To address this, Mak-CAD is committed to training MSc and PhD students.
in AI and data science, equipping them with the expertise needed to drive Africa’s technological growth.
Makerere University Vice-Chancellor, Prof.Barnabas Nawangwe, stressed the importance of AI education in Africa’s future:
“As far as artificial intelligence is concerned, will Africa be left behind again? “This is the defining question for us, and Makerere University is determined to ensure that we are part of this technological revolution. He further emphasized, “Artificial intelligence is the future of the world. Those who want a good life must harness it.”
Mak-CAD is actively working to bridge the AI skills gap through various initiatives. As a first step in fostering local talent, ten students were awarded AI research scholarships during the Centre’s launch. Industry collaborations with leading tech companies will provide hands-on AI training and mentorship, ensuring practical experience.
Additionally, capacity-building programs will equip students, researchers, and policymakers with a broad understanding of AI applications. With Africa projected to need over one million PhD holders in the next decade to drive innovation, Makerere’s AI Centre will play a vital role in developing the next generation of AI specialists.
Unlike developed nations that adapt AI to their existing infrastructure, Africa has the opportunity to leapfrog development by creating homegrown AI solutions designed for its specific challenges.
HE Tiffany Kirlew, Deputy British High Commissioner to Uganda, underscored AI’s potential to drive real-world solutions:
“This lab is not just about research; it’s about solutions—solutions that matter to people in health, the environment, food security, and economic growth.” She further highlighted how AI could bridge gaps in healthcare accessibility. “AI-powered diagnostics developed here could mean faster, more accurate, and more accessible testing for diseases like malaria and tuberculosis, especially in rural areas where doctors are scarce.”
Mak-CAD is actively developing AI-driven innovations to address critical challenges across various sectors. AI-powered health diagnostics will enhance disease detection and treatment, particularly in underserved communities. In agriculture, AI-driven tools will boost productivity and strengthen food security. Climate prediction models will help African nations prepare for and mitigate environmental risks. Additionally, localized AI language models will improve communication across Africa’s diverse linguistic landscapes, fostering greater accessibility and inclusion.
The Centre’s efforts are strengthened by collaborations with leading institutions such as the Welcome Trust, African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Google, and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). These partnerships will ensure that AI solutions developed at Makerere are scalable across the continent.
AI innovation thrives on strong collaboration between universities, industry, and government institutions. Prof. Moses Musinguzi, Principal of the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), highlighted the critical role of AI in modern engineering:
“At CEDAT, we design machines, and with the shift from analogue to digital systems, computing has become central to the design and operation of these machines.”
He emphasized that African universities must take the lead in AI development:
“Before we talk about automating Uganda or creating smart cities, why not start here at Makerere University? Let’s lead by developing prototypes and testing them on our campus first.”
Makerere University’s AI and Data Science Centre is set to be a driving force behind Africa’s AI transformation. By advancing AI research, training local experts, developing tailored AI solutions, and advocating for AI-friendly policies, Mak-CAD will play a pivotal role in Africa’s technological evolution.
With sustained investment and collaboration, the Centre has the potential to position Uganda as a leader in AI innovation while ensuring that AI becomes a tool for economic growth, sustainable development, and societal progress across Africa.