The founder of Etihuku and Curnance, Jeremiah Olamijuwon, has been named the first-ever recipient of the Pamodzi Award, a new accolade from the Deep Learning Indaba, one of Africa’s leading gatherings for artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning.
The award recognises individuals who have demonstrated collaboration, innovation, and meaningful impact within the African AI community.
“Being the inaugural recipient of this award is incredibly humbling. It is not just a recognition of my work, but of everyone I have had the privilege to collaborate with. It reminds us that innovation is strongest when we work together, or Pamodzi,” said Olamijuwon.
Olamijuwon’s journey in AI began with a simple mission: to ensure African voices, talent, and solutions are represented on the global stage. From mentoring young AI enthusiasts to leading research projects that address real-world challenges, his work combines technical expertise with a passion for community-building.
Over the years, he has played a pivotal role in creating spaces where emerging African AI talent can learn, experiment, and collaborate, nurturing the next generation of researchers and innovators.
This focus on inclusivity and mentorship has earned him recognition across the continent, but being the first to receive the Pamodzi Award places him in a unique historical position.
The Deep Learning Indaba introduced the Pamodzi Award in 2025 to honour individuals who reflect the organization’s core values of unity, collaboration, and impact. Olamijuwon’s recognition as the inaugural recipient sets a benchmark for future awardees and emphasizes the growing importance of community-driven contributions to technology in Africa.
Attendees at the award ceremony included AI researchers, practitioners, and community leaders from across Africa, celebrating not just Olamijuwon’s achievement but also the collaborative spirit that the award embodies.
