New research from NTT DATA reveals that enterprise Artificial Intelligence (AI) development is hitting architectural and infrastructural roadblocks due to increasing data privacy and sovereignty regulations.

• Over 95% of organizations acknowledge the importance of private and sovereign AI, yet only 29% are actively prioritizing sovereign AI in the near term.
• Key challenges identified include integrating and managing complex AI models in private environments and navigating cross-border data restrictions, cited by 35% and nearly 60% of leaders respectively.
• NTT DATA's 2026 Global AI Report highlights a widening gap between enterprises redesigning AI for control and security and those still implementing it within older, less adaptable infrastructures.

The Meltwater Entrepreneurial School of Technology (MEST) has launched applications for its second fully-funded AI Startup Program, aimed at nurturing Africa's emerging AI entrepreneurs.

• The program offers seven months of immersive training and a subsequent four-month incubation period.
• Founders can secure up to $100,000 in pre-seed investment upon successful completion.
• Eligibility is open to African founders aged 21-35 in Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, and Kenya with software development experience.