The Deep Learning Indaba’s aim is geared towards fostering and strengthening the machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) community across Africa. Since our inception in 2017, the annual gathering (the Indaba) has served as a platform for African researchers, practitioners, and enthusiasts to come together, share knowledge, and advance AI on the African continent. The name “Indaba,” a Zulu word for a gathering or meeting, reflects our collaborative and inclusive spirit.
The primary goal of the Deep Learning Indaba is to address the underrepresentation of African voices in the global AI landscape. By providing opportunities for education, networking, and skill development, we seek to empower African researchers and practitioners to contribute meaningfully to the global AI community. The Research in Africa Showcase at the annual Indaba and the IndabaX Programme of the Deep Learning Indaba are key demonstrations that this goal is being achieved.
The Research in Africa Showcase is one of the most anticipated highlights of the Indaba. It is a platform designed to celebrate and spotlight the groundbreaking work being done by researchers across the continent in the fields of AI and machine learning (ML). This special day not only provides visibility to research from across the African continent, but also fosters collaboration, mentorship, and inspiration among participants through IndabaX Spotlight talks, Poster Presentations, African Datasets Session, African Startups Session and the Publications Track.
The impact of the Deep Learning Indaba has inspired the establishment of numerous IndabaX Communities (local AI communities and events) across Africa. The IndabaX programme acts as a force multiplier, by creating a ripple effect, fostering AI literacy and enabling the development of AI solutions tailored to address Africa’s unique challenges, including healthcare, agriculture, and education. In 2024 we had IndabaX events in over 47 countries. We anticipate 50 African countries will be represented in 2025. We encourage everyone to get involved in the IndabaX events that will soon take place in your respective countries. Follow the website for up to date information: https://deeplearningindaba.com/2025/indabax/.
The Deep Learning Indaba is more than just a gathering; it is a movement that empowers Africans to harness the transformative potential of AI. By prioritising education, collaboration, and inclusivity, the Deep Learning Indaba has become a beacon of hope for Africa’s technological renaissance. As we continue to grow and evolve as a community, we promise to unlock new opportunities, inspire innovation, and solidify Africa’s place in the global AI landscape.
– Bruno Ssekiwere. 2025 General Chair for the Deep Learning Indaba. January 2025.
