Burkina Faso has entered the frontier of enterprise artificial intelligence with the launch of Aïobi, West Africa’s first DeepTech company dedicated to tailor-made AI solutions for businesses.
A subsidiary of BURVAL Corporate, itself part of the BBS Holding group, Aïobi was officially unveiled on August 20, 2025, after two years of development. The initiative aims to accelerate the digital transformation of major companies across Central and West Africa.
Following the success of Baybow, BURVAL’s smart banking solutions subsidiary, Aïobi represents a significant step in the group’s expansion into advanced technology.
It provides executives with decision-making tools that leverage operational process optimization, computer vision systems, behavioural analysis through the Internet of Behavior (IoB), and cartographic visualization of business flows.
These services target large organizations in sectors including banking, insurance, telecommunications, distribution, hospitality, manufacturing, as well as public administrations and educational institutions. By transforming complex data into actionable insights, Aïobi enables companies to anticipate trends, reduce operational costs, and strengthen strategic positioning.
“AI for operations, humans for value creation,” said Bowendsom Nikiema, CEO of Aïobi. “Our mission is to support African leaders in their quest for operational excellence. Aïobi transforms local champions into global benchmark players by giving them access to technologies previously reserved for international groups.”
Aïobi’s philosophy prioritizes augmenting human capabilities rather than replacing them. Solutions are designed to free teams from repetitive tasks, allowing staff to focus on innovation and strategy.
Integration into the BBS Holding ecosystem creates synergies with BURVAL’s cash transport expertise and Baybow’s electronic payment solutions, enhancing the company’s ability to deliver solutions tailored to local operational realities.
Currently piloting projects with clients in nine strategic markets—including Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Senegal, Guinea, Central African Republic, Ghana, Nigeria, Benin, and Togo—Aïobi is gradually expanding its footprint across the region.
BBS Holding employs over 12,000 people across eight African countries, and with subsidiaries like Baybow and Aïobi, the group aims to shape a modern, secure, and efficient financial and technological ecosystem on the continent.
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