Google AddsYoruba, Hausa to AI Search in Nigeria

Google has expanded its AI-powered Search capabilities to include Yoruba and Hausa, Nigeria's two most widely spoken primary languages, bringing its total African language support to 13. The update allows users to ask questions and receive AI-generated summaries directly in their native tongues through AI Mode in the Google App. This follows Google's launch of WAXAL, an open-source speech database developed with African universities to support local AI tools. Google's West Africa manager stated the expansion aims to make information more accessible by reducing friction for users more comfortable in their mother tongue. Hausa and Yoruba combined account for 48.7% of Nigeria's 500+ languages, with English as the official language. The move supports Google's strategy to localize AI for African users.

SOURCE: https://techcabal.com/2026/03/05/google-introduces-yoruba-and-hausa-to-search-features/