Africa’s growing pool of tech-savvy youth is gaining global attention, but the continent’s role in the artificial intelligence (AI) revolution remains minimal.
Often limited to data labeling and other entry-level tasks, African professionals rarely lead high-value AI projects. JADA, a Lagos-based data and analytics talent hub, is stepping in to change this narrative by building a pipeline of skilled African professionals who can compete on a global scale.
Founded in 2024 by former Jumia Nigeria CEO Massimiliano Spalazzi and tech investor Olumide Soyombo, JADA is on a mission to harness Africa’s untapped potential.
With $1 million in seed funding from its founders and other investors, the startup has started selecting its first cohort of experienced data analysts and scientists. Over a rigorous four-month training program, these professionals will acquire advanced AI skills while receiving stipends to support their learning journey.
JADA aims to tackle the challenges faced by businesses globally as they grapple with AI talent shortages. According to a Google report, more than half of digital leaders worldwide struggle to find skilled AI professionals. By focusing on experienced candidates, JADA hopes to provide its clients in Europe and the Middle East with talent capable of delivering results from day one.
The startup’s founders believe that Africa offers a unique combination of advantages: competitive costs, a growing pool of English-speaking professionals, and a strategic location. “We’re not just training for today’s demand; we’re building a workforce that can lead in AI development globally,” said Spalazzi. Unlike many training programs that prioritize quantity, JADA is focused on quality, using a selective recruitment process to identify top-tier candidates.
With plans to scale beyond Nigeria, JADA’s long-term vision is to establish Africa as a major hub for AI talent. “Our expansion will be driven by our clients’ needs, but our goal remains the same—developing African professionals who can take on the world,” said JADA CEO Piero Trivellato. As the global demand for AI expertise grows, JADA’s efforts may well redefine Africa’s role in the rapidly evolving technology landscape.