Ghana develops SMS-based AI service for feature phones — MyJoyOnline
In Ghana, startup Funza AI has developed an artificial intelligence service that can be used via SMS without a smartphone, internet access, or mobile data. The project was created by Ghanaian technology professional Klenam Tamakloe and his team, MyJoyOnline reports.
Launch planned for November
According to Tamakloe, the team is preparing to launch the service in early November 2026. After its launch, users will be able to send questions to a dedicated short number and receive AI-generated answers. No app, smartphone, or internet connection will be required.
The development is aimed at owners of basic mobile phones, which are also called “yam phones” in Ghana. Its goal is to narrow the digital divide for people in Africa who have limited access to reliable internet or affordable smartphones.
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Support for farmers and students
The developers believe that farmers will be able to request SMS advice on crop cultivation, while students without internet access will be able to receive help with educational assignments. Small business operators will also be able to use the service to prepare business messages and make other requests.
Tamakloe said the team was inspired by the development of mobile money services, which expanded access to financial services for people without traditional banking infrastructure or smartphones. According to him, Funza AI is intended to make artificial intelligence tools accessible regardless of internet connections, smartphones, and app ecosystems.
