Italian Large Language Model for Swahili Underway

A New Chapter for AI in Tanzania

In an exciting development for the Tanzanian public sector, the government has partnered with the Italian generative AI company Almawave to create a Large Language Model (LLM) tailored specifically for the Swahili language. This initiative, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), is set to boost communication and services within the Tanzanian public sector, showcasing the powerful capabilities of artificial intelligence in local contexts.

The collaboration was recently announced by Almawave and Tanzania’s Information Communication Technologies Commission (ICTC). At the core of this partnership is Velvet, Almawave’s LLM, which will be developed in both Swahili and English. This strategic alliance will facilitate the exchange of valuable data, expertise, and technology, ensuring that the model is effectively localized to meet Tanzania’s unique requirements. Here’s what Ms. Valeria Sandei, CEO of Almawave, had to say on the matter:

“The adoption of Velvet in Swahili, tailored to the country’s needs, shows how generative AI can accelerate digitisation, improve public services and foster socio-economic development.”

This statement emphasizes the model’s potential to enhance various aspects of Tanzanian society, from governance to day-to-day interactions.

An image exploring the intersection of technology and Swahili culture.

Enhancing Localization and Accessibility

Dr. Nkundwe Mwasaga, Director General of the ICTC, highlighted the project’s importance in creating a Kiswahili LLM specifically adapted for public sector requirements. The model is expected to deliver a range of linguistic solutions, including real-time speech translation and advanced grammar tools, which will significantly benefit citizens across diverse sectors. This move marks a pivotal step toward more accessible public services for over 70 million Swahili speakers globally.

The unveiling of this plan follows the recent 8th Tanzania Annual ICT Conference (TAIC), themed “Unleashing the Power of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Socio-economic Transformation.” During the conference, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa commended the collaboration between ICTC and Almawave, asserting that it holds substantial promise for enhancing operational efficiency in public service delivery.

Building Trust Through Data and Cooperation

As part of this collaborative endeavor, Almawave will produce an open-source version of the Velvet model for the ICTC. In exchange, local data will be provided to enrich the training of the Swahili version of the model. This reciprocal exchange of information is not just beneficial for technological advancement; it promotes a strong sense of community and trust between Italy and Tanzania.

Almawave has a history of working in Tanzania, previously assisting the judiciary by deploying AI technologies for digitizing criminal and civil cases in both Swahili and English. This ongoing partnership is set to solidify not only the relationship between Almawave and Tanzania but also extend to other African nations where Swahili is spoken extensively.

Illustrative representation of international collaboration in AI.

Socio-Economic Benefits on the Horizon

The implications of this project extend beyond mere technological achievements. By harnessing the strengths of generative AI, Tanzania could unlock new potentials for socio-economic transformation. The incorporation of advanced AI tools could support various sectors, enhancing public administration as well as improving educational frameworks through increased access to information and resources.

The Tanzanian government’s commitment to integrating AI into its public sectors echoes a broader trend among countries looking to foster innovation and efficiency. By nurturing local talent and leveraging cutting-edge technology, the nation is setting a precedent for other developing countries aspiring to elevate their technological landscapes.

Conclusion

As Tanzania embarks on this journey to develop a dedicated Swahili Large Language Model, the collaboration with Almawave symbolizes more than just an advancement in technology; it signifies a robust commitment to progress and empowerment for the Tanzanian populace. With continued investment in AI and technological innovation, the future looks promising as Tanzania actively participates in the global dialogue on digital transformation.

In a world increasingly driven by technology, projects like these highlight the vital role of language in shaping effective governance and community well-being. As more nations recognize the importance of local languages in AI development, the growth of accessible AI tools will undoubtedly usher in a new era of communication and societal advancement.

Connecting technology and community through AI development.

For further insights into how AI is impacting various sectors in Tanzania, check out articles on internet subscriptions and efforts to uphold human rights during elections here.