Tanzania has initiated the development of a Swahili Large Language Model (LLM) to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into various sectors, including education, health, agriculture, and public services. The project was announced by Deputy Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Dr. Switbert Zacharia Mkama, at the Global AI & Digital Summit 2026 in Seoul, Republic of Korea. The summit, held from 19 to 22 October 2026, was organised by the World Bank and the Government of Korea.
The Swahili LLM aims to increase the use of AI in key sectors, promoting digital inclusion and access to information. Dr. Mkama stressed the importance of international cooperation to attract investment, access expertise, and advance the technology domestically. The model is expected to enable citizens, particularly those in rural areas, to access ICT services powered by AI in a language they understand. This development is a significant step towards harnessing the potential of AI in Tanzania.
Tanzania is also promoting the planned Nala Techno Valley technology hub in Dodoma, which was showcased at the summit. The project, set to be established on 400 acres, aims to create a centre for technology, innovation, AI, robotics, and technology startups. The techno valley is expected to drive innovation and entrepreneurship in the country, creating new opportunities for economic growth.
The development of the Swahili LLM is a collaborative effort, with the ICT Commission under the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) partnering with ALMAWAVE, an Italian technology company, in January 2025. The partnership aims to develop advanced Kiswahili tools for AI systems, which have remained underdeveloped despite rapid global AI adoption.
Officials view Tanzania as a natural leader in promoting Kiswahili through AI innovations, given its status as the birthplace of the language. The government's efforts to develop the Swahili LLM and promote the Nala Techno Valley project demonstrate its commitment to harnessing technology for economic growth and digital inclusion.
The Information and Communication Technologies Commission (ICTC) is in the final stages of developing the Swahili Large Language Model, according to then Minister for Communication and Information Technology Angellah Kairuki. The model is expected to advance the use of AI in delivering digital services in Kiswahili, bridging the digital divide and promoting social inclusion.
The development of the Swahili LLM and the Nala Techno Valley project are critical components of Tanzania's strategy to leverage technology for economic growth and social development. As the country continues to invest in AI and digital technologies, it is poised to reap the benefits of innovation and entrepreneurship, driving progress and prosperity for its citizens.
Key points
- Tanzania develops Swahili Large Language Model to expand AI use in education, health, agriculture, and public services.
- The planned Nala Techno Valley technology hub in Dodoma aims to establish a centre for technology, innovation, AI, robotics, and technology startups.
- The Swahili LLM is expected to promote digital inclusion, enabling citizens to access ICT services powered by AI in a language they understand.
