Tanzania pushes for global AI governance

GENEVA: TANZANIA has called for stronger international cooperation to establish inclusive and transparent global rules governing Artificial Intelligence (AI), warning that developing countries must not be left behind as the technology reshapes economies and societies.

The call was made by Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Angellah Kairuki, during the inaugural United Nations Global Dialogue on AI Governance held at the Palexpo International Convention Centre in Geneva from July 6 to 7.

Addressing more than 190 delegates representing governments, international organisations, the private sector and technology experts, Ms Kairuki said Tanzania views AI as a strategic pillar of the country’s Vision 2050 and a key driver of the emerging digital economy.

“Artificial intelligence has the potential to transform agriculture, healthcare, education, financial services and public administration. Its deployment must therefore be safe, inclusive and designed to benefit all citizens,” she said.

The minister said the government is implementing wide-ranging reforms to establish a robust policy and regulatory framework that promotes innovation while safeguarding citizens’ rights, strengthening public trust and ensuring the responsible use of AI technologies.

She said the reforms include the development of AI regulatory frameworks, modernisation of data governance systems, stronger privacy and cybersecurity safeguards, and national guidelines for the application of AI in strategic sectors, including education and healthcare.

Ms Kairuki also highlighted the government’s continued investment in digital infrastructure, including expansion of the National ICT Broadband Backbone (NICTBB) and the development of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), saying the initiatives are laying the foundation for wider access to AI-powered services across the country.

She stressed that no country can effectively govern artificial intelligence in isolation, calling for stronger international partnerships in technology transfer, research, innovation, skills development and investment in digital infrastructure.

The minister reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to working with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the African Union (AU), the African Telecommunications Union (ATU), the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to promote interoperable digital ecosystems that support innovation, trade and cross-border digital services while protecting national sovereignty and data security.

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She said bridging the digital divide requires collective global action to ensure that the benefits of artificial intelligence are shared equitably between developed and developing countries.

The Global Dialogue on AI Governance brought together policymakers, government leaders, technology companies, researchers, civil society organisations and technical experts to shape international approaches to AI governance and explore how the technology can drive inclusive and sustainable development. A second dialogue is scheduled to take place in New York in May next year.