DeAfrica’s AI Training: 1,068 Learners Across 45 African Countries. City, Country — Between February 24 and April 7, 2026, a groundbreaking AI training program reached 1,068 participants from 45 African countries. Organized by Distance Education for Africa, the seven-week course, “Your Journey in the AI Economy, Skills for Work, Learning, and Life, “aimed to provide practical AI literacy to a diverse group across the continent.
The training brought together learners from various backgrounds, including ministries, schools, farms, island states, and conflict — response offices. Botswana led the way with an impressive 408 learners, followed by Kenya with 255 participants. Mauritius, Uganda, and Ethiopia also contributed significant delegations, showcasing a growing interest in AI across the continent.
The program was not limited to major economies; participants logged in from fragile environments, such as South Sudan and small island nations like Comoros. This diversity challenged assumptions about who gets access to emerging technologies and shaped the course’s atmosphere, with professionals from different fields exchanging ideas on lesson planning, crop forecasting, budgeting, and community organizing.
The training focused on judgment and decision — making, encouraging participants to view AI as a collaborator rather than a replacement.
This approach resonated with learners facing challenges like intermittent internet signals, electricity outages, and long workdays. Despite these obstacles, participants found ways to apply AI in their daily work, from launching online support circles to improving conflict analysis.
Organizers emphasized that AI works best when it strengthens human judgment.
Participants were encouraged to test ideas locally, fostering a sense of collective action. Botswana’s high participation highlighted the potential for AI literacy to spread through peer influence.
The training received positive feedback, with many participants expressing gratitude for access to free, high — quality education.
While the course cannot guarantee employment outcomes or institutional reform overnight, it represents a significant step towards enhancing AI literacy and capability across Africa. Further details are expected regarding the sustainability of such training initiatives and their impact on the continent’s development.
*Additional reporting by ImNews*
