Empower Africa's AI Future: Support participants to DLI2025
Join us in Strengthening African AI!
The Deep Learning Indaba is more than just a conference; it's the largest annual gathering of Africa's vibrant AI community. Since 2017, our mission has been to Strengthen African AI, ensuring Africans are owners and shapers of the coming advances in technology. We achieve this through teaching, learning from experts and peers, research, and community building.
In 2024, guided by the Wolof wisdom "Xam Xamlé" – Gather Knowledge and Share – we convened in Dakar, Senegal, bringing together hundreds of passionate individuals from across the globe. The energy was infectious, the learning immense, and the connections forged were invaluable.
Kigali 2025: Urunana – Hand in Hand for AI in Africa
From August 17-22, 2025, we are excited to bring the Deep Learning Indaba to Kigali, Rwanda, hosted in partnership with the University of Rwanda.
This year's theme, “Urunana”, embodies the spirit of solidarity, cooperation, and shared responsibility. It emphasizes collaboration between African nations, bridging gaps between academia and industry, established researchers and emerging talent, traditional knowledge and modern AI, and practitioners and policymakers.
Why Your Support Matters for Kigali 2025
The heart of the Indaba lies in its community and commitment to accessibility. Many brilliant minds across Africa face financial barriers preventing them from participating in this transformative experience.
Travel and accommodation costs can be significant hurdles. In 2024, thanks to generous support, we provided 317 accommodation grants and 200 full travel scholarships, significantly reducing barriers to participation. These grants weren't just tickets; they were keys unlocking doors to:
- World-Class Learning: Access to cutting-edge technical training, workshops, and practical sessions on topics like LLMs, AI for Biology, and Responsible AI.
- Mentorship & Networking: Direct engagement with leaders from top global research labs and African AI startups, fostering guidance and collaboration. As one participant shared, "Through the Indaba, I've built strong networks... some of whom have become lifelong mentors and collaborators".
- Showcasing African Talent: Platforms like the Research in Africa Showcase and Startup Sessions provide visibility and crucial feedback. One researcher noted, "Presenting my research... allowed me to receive constructive feedback... improving its overall quality and impact".
- Career Growth: Opportunities like mock interviews, CV feedback sessions, and access to funding and collaborations that accelerate careers. "The Deep Learning Indaba... introduced me to opportunities I wouldn't have encountered elsewhere... [like] funding opportunities that have helped accelerate my career growth".
- Building Community: Connecting with peers, forming lasting bonds, and joining a supportive ecosystem driving African innovation.
Our Goal: Leave No Talent Behind
This crowdfunding campaign aims to directly fund travel and participation grants for students and researchers who lack the financial resources to join us in Kigali. Every contribution, big or small, makes a tangible difference. It ensures that talent, not financial standing, dictates participation.
By donating, you are investing in:
- Developing Africa's Next Generation of AI Leaders
- Support Groundbreaking Research & Innovation
- Building Sustainable AI Communities Across the Continent
- Ensuring Diverse Voices Shape the Future of AI in Africa
The Deep Learning Indaba has proven to be a "truly life-changing" experience for many, inspiring impactful research and solutions for African challenges.
Help us continue this vital work. Donate today and empower Africa's brightest minds to gather, learn, share, and lead the way in AI – Hand in Hand!
Thank you for believing in the power and potential of African AI!
Organizer
Deep Learning Indaba
Organizer
England
Deep Learning Indaba Limited
Beneficiary