Zambia Treads Ahead on AI Development through Strategic Measures
Africa is positioning itself to harness the benefits of Artificial Intelligence (AI) while mitigating potential risks by developing comprehensive strategies and regulatory frameworks. This shift is evident in the AI initiatives taken by various African nations, such as Zambia, South Africa, and Nigeria.
Zambia's AI Strategy
Zambia is developing a comprehensive AI Framework, with its government collaborating with the Tony Blair Institute to formulate an AI Strategy. Minister Felix Mutati announced that the strategy has been drafted, with plans for launch in July 2024. The Zambian government's AI initiatives were unveiled at the Future of AI in Africa Conference in Lusaka.
Simultaneously, Zambia is working alongside the European Union to craft a Startup Bill. This approach to AI development, which combines international partnerships, local expertise, innovation, and regulation, could serve as a model for balanced and responsible AI development in Africa.
Mutati also announced plans to issue a Statutory Instrument (SI) to oversee ICT practitioners, promoting ethical standards and best practices. Moreover, the government's commitment to transparency and public engagement was underscored when Mutati announced the AI strategy via social media.
Nigeria's AI Initiatives
Nigeria, too, is actively involved in AI development. The country has engaged 120 experts to develop a co-created framework for AI adoption. Unlike Zambia, Nigeria's AI initiatives are not part of a Startup Bill but are mentioned as being part of a revision of the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act. This revision aims to create a secure environment for AI implementation.
Nigeria's National AI Strategy has secured $3.5 million in seed funding from potential partners. However, unlike Zambia, these developments were not explicitly launched at a specific event.
South Africa's AI Regulation
South Africa is considering AI regulation and planning to establish an AI Expert Advisory Council. The government is leveraging the Tony Blair Institute's expertise in providing strategic advice to governments worldwide. South Africa's AI initiatives, while not explicitly mentioned as being launched at a specific event like Zambia's, reflect a growing recognition of AI's potential to drive economic growth, improve public services, and address societal challenges.
In conclusion, the AI Framework aims to harness the benefits of cutting-edge technologies across various sectors. African nations, including Zambia, South Africa, and Nigeria, are embracing this shift, positioning themselves to leverage AI while mitigating potential risks through the development of comprehensive strategies and regulatory frameworks.
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