Smart Africa, a pan-African alliance of 39 member states, is still developing its $100 million artificial intelligence fund, originally announced in 2024. As of May 2026, the fund has not yet launched, according to recent reports.
The fund aims to support AI startups and infrastructure across Africa, but delays have been attributed to complex coordination among member states and the need for robust regulatory frameworks. Smart Africa's CEO, Lacina Koné, stated in a March 2026 interview that the fund is 'a work in progress' and that the organization is 'committed to ensuring it benefits all Africans.'
No specific launch date has been provided, but Smart Africa continues to engage with partners, including the World Bank and the African Development Bank, to finalize the fund's structure. The initiative remains a key priority for the alliance, which seeks to accelerate digital transformation on the continent.
