REGULATION | Zambia Working with Tony Blair Institute and the EU to Establish an Artificial Intelligence Framework and a Startup Bill, Says ICT Minister

Zambia’s Minister of Science and Technology, Felix Mutati, has announced that the government is in the process of establishing an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Framework.

Mr Mutati, who shared a press release on his X page, said Zambia is currently formulating an AI strategy in collaboration with the Tony Blair Institute while the country is also working with the European Union (EU) to develop a Startup Bill.

The Minister then highlighted the significance of an enabling framework for the deployment of AI, emphasizing that the government is actively revising the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act, which plays a crucial role in facilitating the deployment of AI.

The announcements had first been made during the official launch of the Future of AI in Africa Conference in Lusaka, organized by Compu-Connect Education Group.

Sarah Luyele Njamu, the Chief Executive Officer of Compu-Connect Education Group, earlier underscored Zambia’s advantageous position to harness AI for economic growth, improved healthcare, enhanced education, and sustainable development.

Ms Njamu attributed this to the country’s vibrant and youthful population, which presents unique opportunities for leveraging AI technology.

The Zambian government, through its Ministry of Science and Techhnology, has been taking deliberate measures to achieve an inclusive digital economy for Zambia.

Last April [2023], as reported by BitKE, the Minister said the country was in the process of simulating real-world cryptocurrency usage on its way to establishing regulations that balance citizens’ safety with innovation. According to Mutati, Zambia requires digital infrastructure, including digital identities, before cryptocurrencies can be introduced.

Zambia is thus putting in place appropriate digital infrastructure, attracting investments in technology, and creating access, thereby positioning itself to be a hub of technology in the region.

“Zambia has created magnetism that attracts investments and it is one of the countries in Africa that is becoming a must-be place for investment.”