Tanzania is currently in the early stages of drafting a comprehensive National AI Strategy and Guidelines. The goal is to make AI a powerful tool for the country’s development, maximizing use in the age of artificial intelligence.
“It is a draft document at the moment looking at the AI ecosystem in Tanzania. The process is led by the Ministry of Information, Communication and Information Technology (MICIT),” a source with knowledge of the process said. Industry stakeholders are urged to share comments and thoughts on how AI can shape Tanzania’s future and drive progress.
Several African nations are taking proactive steps towards creating their own legal and regulatory frameworks for Artificial Intelligence (AI). To date, seven countries have rolled out national AI policies and strategies, each at varying phases of execution. The countries include Malawi, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Mozambique, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Kenya, Nigeria and Ethiopia are also working to develop their own AI strategy.
READ: Which Countries in Africa Have AI Policies Set in Place?
This year, the African Union (AU) took a major step toward responsible AI with a new draft policy. The proposal outlines a comprehensive framework for AI regulation across the continent, including sector-specific guidelines, certification bodies, and national councils to oversee ethical use.
However, striking the right balance between regulation and innovation is crucial, as overly strict rules could stifle progress. Additionally, Africa’s existing AI infrastructure needs development to support widespread adoption of these technologies.
Globally, the European Union (EU) has been working on an AI act. The act was approved by the EU Parliament in March this year. The world’s first comprehensive AI act aims to ensure AI systems used in the EU are safe, transparent, traceable, non-discriminatory and environmentally friendly.
