Cassava, NVIDIA Back World Bank Plan To Bring AI Computing Within Reach In Africa

Cassava Technologies and NVIDIA have joined a World Bank Group initiative aimed at making artificial intelligence computing resources more accessible to developing countries, with Africa among the regions expected to benefit.

The initiative will provide access to shared computing infrastructure that governments can use to develop and run AI applications without having to build their own dedicated facilities.

The approach centres on pay-as-you-go graphics processing unit (GPU) infrastructure, which provides the computing power required to run AI systems. It is intended to lower the barriers to adopting the technology in countries where building and maintaining large-scale computing facilities could be expensive.

Cassava Technologies and NVIDIA have been named knowledge partners in the AI Infrastructure and Readiness Initiative, launched alongside the World Bank Group’s first digital strategy.

The initiative initially targets Africa and Latin America, with an emphasis on helping countries deploy AI tools that address practical needs rather than concentrating solely on advanced technology development.

Potential applications include tools that help farmers identify crop diseases, support healthcare workers and enable businesses to manage inventory more efficiently.

The World Bank Group’s approach focuses on what it describes as “small AI”, referring to applications designed for specific tasks and local needs.

The initiative comes as developing countries face growing pressure to create jobs for expanding working-age populations. About 1.2 billion young people in these economies are expected to reach working age over the next 10 to 15 years, while approximately 420 million jobs are projected to be generated.

World Bank Group president Ajay Banga said digital technology could help countries create employment opportunities and use limited resources more efficiently, provided the necessary foundations were in place.

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The Group’s digital strategy identifies four priorities: expanding reliable internet connectivity, reducing the cost of devices and data, strengthening digital services and skills, and improving countries’ readiness to adopt AI.

Access remains a major obstacle. More than two billion people worldwide were offline in 2025, while internet usage stood at 23 per cent in low-income countries, compared with 94 per cent in high-income countries.

Even in areas with network coverage, the cost of smartphones and data, limited digital skills and a lack of relevant services can prevent people from participating in the digital economy.

Beyond computing infrastructure, the strategy includes measures to expand digital identification, payment systems and secure information-sharing services, alongside training linked to employment.

The World Bank Group plans to combine financing, policy support, private investment and guarantees to help governments and businesses strengthen digital infrastructure. Privacy, cybersecurity and fraud protection are also identified as priorities.

The partnership with Cassava Technologies and NVIDIA forms part of this broader effort to help developing countries move from basic digital access towards practical applications that could improve productivity, public services and economic opportunities.