Google has added Kikuyu and Dholuo to its WAXAL speech dataset.
According to Google, this is to accelerate the development of artificial intelligence (AI) tools for millions of African language speakers who have long been excluded from voice-enabled technologies.
According to reports, the dataset is designed to help developers and researchers build AI systems that understand African languages.
It will also help to improve access to AI-powered tools in East Africa, including voice assistants, speech-to-text systems, educational platforms, and digital public services.
The dataset will cover African languages such as Acholi, Akan, Dagaare, Dagbani, Dholuo, Ewe, Fante, Fulani (Fula), Hausa, Igbo, Ikposo (Kposo), Kikuyu, Lingala, Luganda, Malagasy, Masaaba, Nyankole, Rukiga, Shona, Soga (Lusoga), Swahili, and Yoruba.
