- Bill Gates commits to allocate major part of his $200 billion wealth to support Africa's development initiatives
- The funding focus will be on healthcare, education, and economic development in cooperation with African governments

Speaking in the Nelson Mandela room of the African Union, Bill Gates pledged to devote a significant portion of his $200 billion fortune to facilitate Africa's development. His project will concentrate on enhancing healthcare systems, education, and economic development, in partnership with the continent's governments.

Addressing a broad audience comprised of state representatives, health professionals, diplomats and civil society actors, Gates revealed that his personal wealth would be completely dedicated to philanthropic endeavours within the next twenty years. The majority of these funds, he explained, will be directed towards initiatives in Africa: "I have recently committed to giving all my fortune in the next 20 years. The majority of these funds will be devoted to helping you meet the challenges here, in Africa," he declared.

Gates highlighted that efforts would primarily focus on primary healthcare, maternal and child nutrition, as well as access to education. He stated, “What we have learnt is that helping a mother be healthy and well-nourished before and during pregnancy, and then ensuring that the child receives good nutrition in its first four years, makes all the difference.”

Additionally, the speech touched upon the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare services. Gates discussed the case of Rwanda, where AI-based tools are used to enhance pregnancy monitoring. He associated this development with the rapid adoption of mobile payment services on the continent in recent years.

The Microsoft founder indicated that his team would continue its dialogue with African leaders throughout his journey, particularly in Ethiopia and Nigeria, to assess ongoing projects and strengthen collaborations.

In Nigeria, he plans to meet President Tinubu, federal and local authorities, and researchers involved in developing digital health tools. He will also participate in the Goalkeepers Nigeria event, dedicated to innovation prospects in the country.

For twenty years, the Gates Foundation has been active in several African countries. It has offices in Addis Ababa, Johannesburg, Dakar, Nairobi, and Lagos, where its teams develop partnerships with governments, research centers, and local organizations.