Accra, March 3, GNA – The measure of artificial intelligence lies not only in processing power, but in its ability to foster human connection and expand opportunity.
For decades, the global technology narrative has largely centred on Silicon Valley. That paradigm, however, is shifting as Africa increasingly positions itself not merely as a consumer of technology, but as a creator and driver of innovation.
This renewed confidence will be on display when the Pan African Artificial Intelligence (AI) Summit returns to Accra on September 22 and 23 at the Kempinski Hotel, following its inaugural 2025 edition.
A key highlight of the summit is the participation of Ghanaian-born technology entrepreneur Danny Manu, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the UK-based firm Mymanu.
Mr Manu has gained international recognition for developing what is described as the world’s first wireless earbuds capable of real-time translation in more than 40 languages without internet connectivity.
The flagship product, the Mymanu CLIK, integrated with the proprietary MyJuno application, employs advanced algorithms to provide speech-to-text and text-to-speech translations.
What distinguishes the innovation is its offline functionality. In many parts of the world, including rural and underserved communities, internet access remains limited or unstable. By eliminating the need for continuous connectivity, the device expands access to cross-border communication.
“This device was created to help people connect, whether they’re travelling, doing business, or simply trying to understand one another,” Mr Manu said.
Beyond consumer convenience, the technology presents practical applications across critical sectors.
In International Trade and Business, it facilitates smoother negotiations between African enterprises and global partners.
Within Education, it offers students and educators in remote areas the opportunity to access global knowledge without language constraints.
For Humanitarian Efforts, it enables first responders and non-governmental organisations to communicate effectively in crisis zones where infrastructure may have collapsed.
In Tourism, it supports deeper engagement with Africa’s cultural heritage by reducing language barriers for international visitors.
Organisers of the summit indicate that Mr Manu’s participation provides tangible inspiration for young African innovators seeking to enter the technology space.
Mr Felix Donkor, a representative of the summit organisation, notes that Africa has the youngest population in the world. He emphasises that connecting young people with proven innovators helps cultivate an ecosystem capable of producing globally competitive technology leaders from the continent.
Originally trained as an engineer, Mr Manu has consistently focused on combining functionality with accessibility, ensuring that technological advancement responds to real human needs.
The return of the Pan African AI Summit to Accra signals growing momentum within Africa’s innovation landscape.
With home-grown pioneers contributing to global solutions, the continent’s role in shaping the future of artificial intelligence continues to expand – demonstrating that transformative technology can emerge from Africa to serve the world.
GNA
Edited by Beatrice Asamani Savage