The initiative, launched on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, by the EAC Secretariat and the Government of Germany through the EAC AI Alliance, will challenge young innovators, researchers and students to develop AI-powered solutions for ebola detection, preparedness and response. Speaking at the event, Head of the East and Central Africa Division at BMZ, Mr Joachim Schmitt, said Germany’s support for the EAC AI Alliance reflected the need for a coordinated regional approach to AI development. Through the EAC AI Alliance, Germany is supporting a regional approach that builds practical AI skills, applied research and AI policy shaped by the needs of the people of East Africa,” he said.