Orange Paves the Way for Digital Inclusion in Africa Through AI
(Paris, France) – In a groundbreaking move, global telecom giant Orange is leading the charge to bridge the digital divide in Africa by integrating regional languages into artificial intelligence (AI) language models. This initiative, set to launch in the first half of 2025, promises to unlock transformative opportunities for millions across the continent.
"Our vision is to make AI and other technological advancements accessible to everyone, including those who are currently unable to benefit from their potential," said Stéphane Richard, CEO of Orange.
Orange will optimize the latest OpenAI and Meta’s Llama 3.1 models to support widely spoken African languages like Wolof and Pulaar, spoken by 16 million and 6 million people respectively. This move addresses a crucial gap in existing AI technology, which predominantly focuses on globally dominant languages.
This project isn’t just about translation; it’s about empowerment. By enabling communication in native tongues, Orange aims to make AI services like customer support and education accessible to a much broader audience, including those who are illiterate.
Open Source for Innovation:
Orange is further accelerating this inclusive vision by making these AI models available for non-commercial use under a free license. This opens doors for local startups and tech companies to build innovative solutions tailored to African communities.
"We envision a vibrant ecosystem of AI development in these regional languages," Richard said.
Building on a Partnership:
Adding another dimension to its commitment to AI, Orange has forged a strategic partnership with OpenAI. This agreement grants Orange direct access to OpenAI’s cutting-edge models hosted and processed within Europe. This not only strengthens data security but also paves the way for Orange to develop localized AI solutions within its core business.
Responsible AI Takes Center Stage:
While embracing the transformative power of AI, Orange emphasizes a strict "responsible AI" approach. This means strategically deploying advanced AI models only when necessary. For simpler applications, the company will opt for more cost-effective and environmentally friendly solutions.
“We believe in offering the most appropriate and straightforward solution for each use case,” said Richard.
Orange’s broader vision:
Orange’s efforts extend beyond Africa. The company is actively engaged in fostering a thriving European AI ecosystem by championing open-source AI projects. This dedication to accessibility ensures that artificial intelligence benefits everyone, regardless of location or linguistic background.
This initiative truly represents a paradigm shift in how technology can be leveraged for social good. Orange is not only bridging the digital divide but also empowering communities to translate their unique knowledge and perspectives onto the global stage, one language at a time.
