African Currents

Large Language Models keep transforming multiple sectors around the world, yet African languages generally get less attention in AI development. While numerous African start-ups, including South Africa's Lelapa AI and Nigeria's Pamoja AI, are working to reduce this gap, Orange Telecommunications' recent collaboration with global AI tech behemoths raises worries about real inclusivity, as it concentrates solely on Pulaar and Wolof. By leaving out local markets where Orange offers telecom services to speakers of prominent African languages, this strategy risks limiting access to AI-driven digital solutions and strengthening the current digital divide. To achieve greater linguistic and cultural inclusiveness, a holistic approach is required.