Language AI as Critical Infrastructure for Africa's Digital Sovereignty

In this second episode of a special series of the Embedded podcast, host Zain Verjee speaks with Prof. Vukosi Marivate about the critical role of language in creating AI systems that serve African communities authentically. As a leading figure in machine learning and natural language processing in Africa, Prof. Marivate shares insights on developing AI for low-resource languages, preserving cultural context, and ensuring ethical approaches to data collection. The conversation explores how grassroots initiatives like Masakhane Research Foundation and companies like Lelapa AI are working to ensure African languages aren't left behind in the AI revolution. Produced in partnership with The Rwanda Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution and recorded at the Global AI Summit on Africa from April 3rd-4th, 2025.