Brazil, Poland back Dar’s push for digital growth

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA has reached separate agreements with Brazil and Poland to strengthen cooperation in Communications and Information Technology as part of efforts to accelerate the country’s digital transformation agenda.

Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Ms Angellah Kairuki, entered the agreements during bilateral meetings held on the sidelines of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) in Geneva, Switzerland.

In talks with Brazil’s Technology Ambassador, Mr Eugenio Garcia, the two sides agreed to enhance cooperation in telecommunications infrastructure development, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), innovation and technology investment.

They also discussed expanding collaboration in digital transformation, digital government services, AI and the digital economy.

Ms Kairuki proposed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalise the partnership and invited Brazil to invest in Tanzania’s data centres and support the development of technology start-ups.

ALSO READ: Tanzania insists on respectful provision of services to its retirees

Mr Garcia said Brazil is ready to share its experience in implementing the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, the Gov.br digital government platform, the PIX instant payment system and initiatives to expand communications services in rural areas.

The two countries further agreed to strengthen cooperation in cybersecurity, personal data protection, exchange of experts and knowledge sharing, while continuing to work together within the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to advance digital transformation and sustainable development.

Meanwhile, Ms Kairuki also held talks with Poland’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Digital Affairs, Mr Krzysztof Gawkowski, during which she outlined Tanzania’s digital transformation priorities.

She said the government’s priorities include expanding access to communications services, promoting digital identity, strengthening cybersecurity, developing digital skills, advancing the use of artificial intelligence, enhancing digital inclusion and expanding digital public services.

The Minister proposed enhanced cooperation with Poland in cybersecurity, digital government, artificial intelligence research and governance, expansion of high-speed internet infrastructure and capacity building for ICT professionals.

She also expressed Tanzania’s interest in learning from Poland’s experience in digital wallets, interoperable digital platforms and digital payment systems.

Mr Gawkowski said Tanzania’s priorities are aligned with Poland’s digital development strategy and reaffirmed his country’s commitment to cooperate through the exchange of expertise in digital government, cybersecurity, critical infrastructure protection, digital payment solutions and artificial intelligence.

He also proposed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on digital cooperation and invited Tanzanian and Polish experts to begin technical discussions on implementing the partnership.