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Google·Jan 1, 2026·v1.0.0·open source

WaxalNLP

The WaxalNLP dataset is a comprehensive collection of audio data for both Automated Speech Recognition (ASR) and Text-to-Speech (TTS) tasks in 14 African languages. It aims to enhance the accuracy and fluency of speech and language technologies for underserved African languages and serves as a resource for digital preservation.

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overview

The WaxalNLP dataset is a comprehensive collection of audio data for both Automated Speech Recognition (ASR) and Text-to-Speech (TTS) tasks in 14 African languages. It aims to enhance the accuracy and fluency of speech and language technologies for underserved African languages and serves as a resource for digital preservation.

key features
  • 01Contains approximately 1,250 hours of transcribed natural speech for ASR
  • 02Includes about 240 hours of scripted natural speech for TTS
  • 03Covers 14 African languages spoken by over 100 million people across 40 Sub-Saharan countries
  • 04Acquired through partnerships with Makerere University, The University of Ghana, Digital Umuganda, and Media Trust
  • 05Funded by Google and the Gates Foundation to be openly accessible