Telkom Group unveils AI Growth Catalyst Programme to support Black-owned ICT SMMEs
Date: 2026-02-04
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
Telkom
Group has launched the AI Growth Catalyst Programme, a six-month accelerator
aimed at enabling South African, Black-owned ICT small, medium and micro
enterprises (SMMEs) to adopt and scale artificial intelligence solutions. The
programme was unveiled through Telkom Group FutureMakers in partnership with
the UK–South Africa Tech Hub and Disraptor.
The
launch was led by Telkom Group Digital Officer Sello Mmakau, Group Executive
for Innovation and Transformation Dr. Mmaki Jantjies, and Head of Business
Development Tshepo Phetla. The fully funded accelerator is designed to provide
participating businesses with targeted AI skills development, access to digital
tools, and exposure to global networks to enhance competitiveness and growth.
The
initiative comes at a time when artificial intelligence is increasingly
recognised as a key driver of economic participation and global
competitiveness. International discussions, including those at the World
Economic Forum, have highlighted AI’s growing influence in determining which
economies and businesses are able to scale and remain resilient, as well as how
inclusive future growth will be.
Telkom
Group said the programme reflects a strategic approach that combines
connectivity, platforms and partnerships to support sustainable AI adoption.
The company noted that while AI depends on robust digital infrastructure and
data platforms, its long-term impact also requires the deliberate inclusion of
small businesses and innovators.
According
to Telkom, Africa’s AI opportunity lies in developing solutions grounded in
local realities while remaining globally competitive, with applications
spanning healthcare, education, agriculture and enterprise development. The
Group added that its digital transformation efforts continue to prioritise
human-centred, economically enabling and structurally sustainable AI adoption
through initiatives such as the AI Growth Catalyst Programme.
