The Deep Learning Indaba is an annual conference and educational event that aims to strengthen machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) capacity across Africa. Launched in 2017, it brings together students, researchers, industry practitioners, and policymakers from across the African continent.
History
The Deep Learning Indaba began in 2017 at the University of the Witwatersrand with over 300 participants from 23 African countries, offering tutorials in advanced AI topics and featuring notable speakers like Nando de Freitas. In 2018, it expanded to 650 delegates at Stellenbosch University, introducing parallel sessions to encourage collaboration. The 2019 edition in Nairobi, Kenya, reflected further growth, with increasing sponsorship and support from major tech companies like Google and Microsoft.
+List of annual Deep Learning Indaba conferencesYear Host countryVenue 2017Johannesburg, South Africa Wits University 2018Stellenbosch, South AfricaStellenbosch University 2019Nairobi, KenyaKenyatta University2020Cancelled Cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic2021None None2022Tunis, TunisiaSup’Com2023Accra, GhanaUniversity of Ghana2024Dakar, Senegal Amadou Mahtar Mbow University (UAM)2025Kigali, RwandaUniversity of Rwanda2026Lagos, NigeriaPan-Atlantic University
Deep Learning IndabaX Deep Learning IndabaX is a network of machine learning and artificial intelligence events organized locally in countries across Africa. It is an extension of the annual Deep Learning Indaba. Launched in 2018, the program aims to strengthen local AI communities. It does this by supporting workshops, tutorials, research presentations, and networking opportunities run by volunteers in each country. The initiative has grown from 13 events in its first year to many participating countries across the continent. It helps expand access to AI education and community building beyond the annual conference.
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