Khaya AI wins at the 2024 UN & UNESCO- backed World Summit Awards for their advancement of African languages through AI. Khaya AI is a groundbreaking translation app that harnesses Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence to support Ghanaian and African languages. Initially launched as the first AI-driven translation tool for Ghanaian languages, Khaya has since expanded beyond Ghana, incorporating languages such as Yoruba.
One of its standout features is its Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) capabilities for Twi and Yoruba. This innovative function allows users to speak directly to their devices, with the app seamlessly converting speech into text, an unprecedented achievement for these languages. To date, Khaya remains the only app offering such comprehensive speech recognition capabilities.
The app’s core technology is powered by various neural network architectures developed by Algorine Research, building upon open-source advancements from Ghana NLP. As Khaya AI continues to grow, users are encouraged to support its development by subscribing to the ad-free version, ensuring continuous improvements and the expansion of AI-driven language solutions across Africa.
Every year, the World Summit Awards (WSA) recognize outstanding digital innovations that contribute to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through the creative use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), these initiatives address societal challenges and make a meaningful impact on local communities.
The selection process is rigorous, beginning with WSA’s network of National Experts across 182 countries who nominate exceptional digital solutions from their regions. These nominations undergo further scrutiny through an Online Jury, which shortlists the most promising projects. Finally, a Grand Jury evaluates the shortlisted entries and selects the top winners.
For 2024, 40 winners from 29 countries have been chosen for their remarkable ability to leverage technology for positive change while ensuring sustainability. These projects stand as a testament to how digital innovation can transform lives and create a better future.
Ghana secured three prestigious awards at this year’s World Summit Awards. The winners include Achieve, which is transforming financial services in Ghana by making investments more accessible to the middle class; Chango, Africa’s leading group contribution and crowdfunding platform, designed by Africans for Africans; and Khaya AI, an innovative AI-powered translation and speech recognition app for African languages. These groundbreaking solutions showcase Ghana’s excellence in digital innovation and its commitment to leveraging technology for societal impact.
Ghana’s remarkable performance at the 2024 World Summit Awards highlights the country’s growing influence in digital innovation and its commitment to leveraging technology for social and economic transformation. The success of Achieve, Chango, and Khaya AI reflects the ingenuity and resilience of Ghanaian entrepreneurs in addressing real-world challenges through tech-driven solutions.
Editor: Ama Gyesiwaa Quansah
