Tanzania ramps up AI efforts to spur social, economic growth

DAR ES SALAAM: AS the world undergoes a profound technological revolution fuelled by the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Tanzania is strategically positioned to harness this transformative technology to drive substantial change and contribute meaningfully to national economic growth.

The government, through the Ministry for Communications and Information Technology, confirmed yesterday that the government is now determined to exploit the opportunity for the mutual development of the nation, and that it has initiated the Tanzania Artificial Intelligence forum to achieve the goal.

Information and Communication Technologies Commission (ICTC), Director General Dr Nkundwe Mwasaga said many countries globally are currently exploring how to utilise technologies, particularly AI, to drive social and economic development in various ways.

He said the forum, themed ‘Building a Tanzania that Leverages AI in Line with Our Values and Data Governance for Inclusive Economic and Social Development,’ will be the first of its kind in the country.

The forum is scheduled to take place from July 28-29 in Dar es Salaam. He said the forum will attract over 500 stakeholders and experts from various countries including Germany, Estonia, Finland and the East African Community (EAC) nations.

“Globally, advancements and revolutions brought about by AI are prompting many nations to consider how to leverage these technologies for social and economic progress. Here in Tanzania, we have started incorporating these technologies, with one judicial institution having begun using AI two years ago. The technology is also being used in schools, universities the health sector and more,” said Dr Mwasaga.

He added that unlike many other technologies, Artificial Intelligence (AI) affects every Tanzanian from users and innovators to students, civil servants and private sector workers because it represents a monumental shift as the first technology in history capable of thinking and making decisions like a human.

Speaking on the event’s theme, Dr Mwasaga noted that the forum would address several key issues, including the use of AI in alignment with national ethical standards.

He stressed that leading nations such as the United States and China maintain strong data control, giving them a competitive edge in AI development and deployment.

Dr Mwasaga further stated that the government has already taken steps toward establishing a national data centre. This includes the enactment and implementation of a personal data protection law to safeguard citizens’ information.

“We will examine all aspects of AI and data governance to ensure they drive two core outcomes: social and economic development. At the same time, we aim for inclusivity ensuring that no one is left behind in this technological revolution,” he said.

According to Dr Mwasaga, among the topics to be discussed during the forum include the AI strategy. He said the ministry is in the final stages to develop the strategy. He said the forum also aims to develop skills for creating AI systems, utilising them effectively and refine Tanzania’s policies to support successful AI-driven advancements.

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Dr Mwasaga explained that the forum will give an opportunity for Tanzanian experts to exchange knowledge and experiences with seasoned experts from different countries, while also providing emerging innovators a chance to connnect with local and international institutions.