First Africa IBM research lab opened in Nairobi

US tech giant, IBM, has opened its 12th global laboratory and the first commercial technology research facility on the continent conducting both applied and far-reaching exploratory research in Nairobi, Kenya. (video)

The new research lab is a former library at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa that has been turned into an advanced computing facility.

IBM Research has stated that its presence in Kenya aims to "encourage and strengthen an innovative culture, and engage local entrepreneurs and innovators to develop solutions to the challenges faced by the people of Kenya, the surrounding region and other fast-growing markets around the world."

According to the company the lab's research agenda includes the development of cognitive computing technologies that can be applied to address issues in public health, education and agriculture.

For more, go to www.research.ibm.com.