Microsoft opened the Microsoft African Research Institute (MARI) in Nairobi's Westlands district in March 2022, marking its first research facility on the African continent. The institute is located within the newly established African Development Centre (ADC) offices and focuses on advancing computer science through research in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and human-computer interaction.
MARI's initial projects include examining digital transformation in African small and medium-sized enterprises, developing language technologies for Swahili and Sheng, and exploring AI applications to expand healthcare access. A multidisciplinary team based in Nairobi has completed its first research on how work practices in Africa have evolved since the COVID-19 pandemic.
The institute plans to offer PhD fellowships to African students, host visiting researchers, and provide platforms for student projects. It aims to address regional challenges while contributing to global innovations in work, health, and societal development.
Key Statements ¶
Jaime Teevan, Microsoft's Chief Scientist, emphasized the need for scientific innovation to create sustainable futures. Dr. Jacki O’Neill, MARI's founding director, stated the institute's mission to deploy cloud and AI technologies that tackle local challenges and drive global progress in work, health, and society.
