Tanzania promotes AI to strengthen regional integration, security

KIGALI: TANZANIA has underscored the importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a vital modern tool for advancing regional integration and accelerating development within the East African Community (EAC).

The technology is expected to play a key role across sectors such as agriculture, education, industry, health, and trade.

The call was made by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, during the 4th EAC Regional Science, Technology and Innovation Conference.

The event, organised by the East African Science and Technology Commission (EASTECO) in collaboration with the InterUniversity Council for East Africa (IUCEA), is taking place in Kigali, Rwanda, from March 30 to April 1, 2026.

Addressing the conference, which brought together senior government officials from EAC member states, innovators, academics, diplomats, and development partners, Minister Kombo emphasised the role of AI in enhancing efficiency and productivity.

He noted that AI can significantly improve public service delivery and strengthen economic competitiveness both within the region and globally.

Speaking on Tanzania’s progress, the Minister said that under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, the country has prioritised the growth of technology, the digital economy, and innovation as central pillars of its national development agenda and Vision 2050.

He explained that this approach aims to drive inclusive growth, improve service delivery, and enhance the welfare of citizens, particularly young people.

To deepen regional cooperation, Minister Kombo urged EAC partner states to intensify joint efforts in mobilising financial resources to support key initiatives. These include research, development of digital infrastructure, knowledge exchange, promotion of local innovation, and implementation of joint technology projects to build economic and social resilience across the region.

He also highlighted the need for strong policy and regulatory frameworks, as well as public education, to ensure the safe and ethical use of AI. Without effective governance, he cautioned, AI could contribute to emerging challenges such as security risks and widening economic inequalities.

The conference, held under the theme “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for a Resilient, Inclusive and Innovative East Africa,” is attended by a Tanzanian delegation led by Amb Kombo.

The delegation includes the Minister for Education, Science and Technology, Professor Adolf Mkenda; the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, Mr Mohammed Khamis Abdulla; the Acting Permanent Secretary responsible for East African Affairs, Ambassador Said Shaib Mussa; along with senior government officials and academics from various higher learning institutions.