The Gates Foundation has committed at least $1 billion over the next two years to support the development and use of artificial intelligence in healthcare, education and agriculture.

According to Reuters, the announcement came as Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates warned that governments around the world are not sufficiently prepared for the changes artificial intelligence could bring to society. He also pointed to potential risks involving employment, cybersecurity and the growing use of AI-powered companions.

The initiative is aimed at expanding access to AI tools in communities that have traditionally had limited access to advanced technology. The foundation also plans to support systems that improve the use of data and make AI more useful across different languages and local settings.

Africa is expected to benefit from the foundation’s broader AI efforts, particularly through programmes targeting healthcare, education and agriculture in lower-income communities. However, the foundation has not announced a specific portion of the new $1 billion commitment for Africa.