Kenyan AI Startups Secure Sh1.3 Million in Meta Funding

Two Kenyan artificial intelligence startups have secured a combined Sh1.3 million in equity-free funding through the inaugural Meta AI Academy Kenya Pitchathon.

Neural Labs Africa and Me-Nasoma each received US$5,000, approximately Sh645,000, along with advertising credits from Meta to support their AI solutions in healthcare and education.

The competition, co-organized by Meta and This Is Digital, received over 426 applications, with 10 finalists selected to present innovations across various sectors including healthcare, education, and financial services.

Sarah Muyonga, Meta’s Public Policy Manager for East and Horn of Africa, stated that the partnership with the government and local partners aims to expand access to AI skills and tools in Kenya.

Meta emphasized that the initiative combines access to its AI technologies with mentorship and industry support to assist local developers in bringing their products to market.