Afretec, a network of technology-focused universities across Africa, has announced $1.7 million in grants to enhance research and promote digital growth across the continent. The grants include five awards of $250,000 each and eight grants of $50,000 each, supporting research in AI, machine learning, robotics, IT, and cybersecurity.

The funded projects focus on critical challenges in health, environment, sustainability, and energy, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Highlights include:

- Real-time Noise Level Web Mapping: Led by David Siriba, this project, in partnership with the University of Nairobi, the University of Rwanda, and the Israel Institute of Technology, aims to reduce urban noise pollution using crowdsourced data.
  
- IoT and Edge-AI for Schistosomiasis Management: Led by Moustafa Youssef and Benyl Muyoma Ondeto, this project will detect and manage schistosomiasis using IoT and AI in collaboration with the American University in Cairo and the University of Nairobi.
  
- AI for Extracting Carbon from Landfill Waste: Led by Abdul Ganiyu Adelopo, this initiative, with partners from the University of Lagos and Carnegie Mellon University Africa, plans to convert landfill waste into renewable energy using AI.

- Predictive Algorithm for Climate Change Diseases: Led by Immaculata Nwokoro, this project aims to predict climate change-related diseases in African cities using AI and IoT, with partners from the University of Nairobi and the University of Lagos.
  
- Digital Transformation in Youth-led MSMEs: Led by Duncan Elly, this project will assess digital maturity in youth-led enterprises, in collaboration with universities in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa.

These projects underscore Afretec’s commitment to advancing African research and technology development, addressing pressing challenges, and fostering innovation across the continent.

 

Article by RB Correspodent

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https://www.africa.engineering.cmu.edu/news/2024/06/18-afretec-awards.html