GENEVA, Switzerland : 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 transforms economies and societies.
Addressing more than 190 delegates representing governments, international organisations, the private sector and technology experts at the Global Dialogue on AI Governance, Minister for Communication and Information Technology Angellah Kairuki said AI should be harnessed to accelerate sustainable development while ensuring its use remains safe, ethical and equitable.
She said Tanzania considers artificial intelligence 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,” Ms Kairuki said.
She 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 responsible use of AI technologies.
According to the minister, the reforms include the development of AI regulatory frameworks, modernisation of data governance systems, stronger privacy and cybersecurity safeguards, and preparation of national guidelines for the application of AI in strategic sectors such as 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.
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The minister reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to working closely 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.
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 has brought together policymakers, government leaders, technology experts and private-sector stakeholders from around the world to shape international approaches to AI governance and explore how the technology can drive inclusive and sustainable development.
