By Jide Ayola.
Goloka Analytics, a tech startup originating from Dataphyte, has announced a partnership with Meta to enhance the inclusion of indigenous African languages within artificial intelligence (AI) systems.
The collaboration, announced on Wednesday, falls under Meta’s local language partnership program. It will focus on gathering linguistic data for five key Nigerian languages: Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, Fulfulde, and Urhobo.
Joshua Olufemi, the founder of Goloka Analytics, hailed the partnership as a significant stride towards achieving digital representation and preserving cultural heritage within the technology sector.
Olufemi explained that the collected datasets will contribute to broader AI systems, ensuring they reflect local knowledge and foster equitable access to technology throughout the Global South.
“By utilizing our hyperlocal data collection model, our aim is to deliver high-quality linguistic datasets that contribute to the development of more precise and inclusive technologies,” he stated. “Our focus is on gathering data that mirrors local realities and champions fair representation for communities historically underrepresented in digital technologies.”
Oluseyi Olufemi, Country Lead at Dataphyte, emphasized that the partnership aligns with Goloka’s broader commitment to language, learning, and localization.
“The language datasets generated through this project will be integrated into wider AI systems, facilitating equitable and relevant application across various sectors,” he added.
Both Goloka and Dataphyte have called for the involvement of stakeholders from the public, private, and civic sectors to ensure that the advancement of AI remains inclusive and decentralized.
