In a landmark move set to shape the future of artificial intelligence (AI) across Africa and beyond, Mistral AI, the Paris-based pioneer in open-weight large language models, has entered a strategic partnership with G42, a leading global technology group. The collaboration aims to co-develop next-generation AI platforms and infrastructure, with Kenya positioned as a key hub in the initiative.

Announced during the “Choose France” summit, the agreement marks a major step in strengthening international cooperation in AI innovation, building on the AI accords signed in February 2025 between French President Emmanuel Macron and UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The new alliance now looks to extend its impact across Africa, with Kenya identified as a strategic partner due to its fast-growing digital economy and regional leadership in technology.

“This partnership sets a new global benchmark for AI development that prioritizes openness, innovation, and accessibility,” said Peng Xiao, Group CEO of G42. “By combining Mistral AI’s frontier research with G42’s robust infrastructure and scale, we’re laying the foundation for a future where Africa plays a central role in shaping responsible, interoperable AI.”

G42’s operational capacity-through its subsidiaries like Core42 (AI infrastructure) and Inception (AI platforms), will integrate with Mistral AI’s powerful open-source models to build cutting-edge AI systems that serve industries from agriculture to finance. These tools are expected to unlock new opportunities for Kenyan startups, universities, and enterprises seeking to adopt AI technologies.

Arthur Mensch, CEO and Co-founder of Mistral AI, emphasized that Kenya’s growing ecosystem makes it an ideal launchpad: “We believe in AI for all, and Kenya’s innovation-driven spirit aligns perfectly with our mission. Together, we aim to expand access and relevance of AI across the Global South.”

The collaboration also involves the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI), which plans to work closely with Kenyan academic institutions to foster local talent and accelerate R&D in foundational models, energy-efficient computing, and AI safety.

This strategic alliance promises to bring inclusive growth and technological empowerment to regions long underserved by global AI advancements-starting with Kenya.