Goloka Analytics, a tech startup spun off from Dataphyte, has partnered with Meta to support the inclusion of indigenous African languages in artificial intelligence (AI) systems.
In a statement on Wednesday, Goloka Analytics said the partnership falls under Meta’s local language partnership programme and will involve the collection of linguistic data in five Nigerian languages, including Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, Fulfulde, and Urhobo.
Joshua Olufemi, founder of Goloka Analytics, described the collaboration as a major step towards digital representation and cultural preservation in the tech ecosystem.
Olufemi also said the datasets gathered will feed into broader AI systems that reflect local knowledge and promote equitable technology access across the Global South.
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“By applying our hyperlocal data collection model, we intend to provide high-quality linguistic datasets that help build more accurate and inclusive technologies,” he said.
“We are focused on collecting data that reflects local realities and promotes fair representation for communities that have long been underrepresented in digital technologies.”
Oluseyi Olufemi, country lead at Dataphyte, added that the partnership aligns with Goloka’s broader framework on language, learning, and localisation.
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“The language datasets generated through this project will be integrated into broader AI systems, supporting equitable and relevant use across sectors,” he added.
Goloka and Dataphyte also called for participation from stakeholders across the public, private, and civic sectors to ensure that AI development remains inclusive and decentralised.
