Zambia’s Minister of Science and Technology, Felix Mutati, has unveiled the nation’s ongoing efforts to establish an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Framework, outlining the country’s progress and future plans in AI development.
Mutati announced via an X post during the Future of AI in Africa Conference launch in Lusaka. He revealed that the government is crafting an AI Strategy in collaboration with the Tony Blair Institute, an organisation renowned for its expertise in advising governments on strategy, policy, and implementation. Additionally, Zambia is partnering with the European Union (EU) to create a Startup Bill aimed at fostering a supportive environment for innovation and entrepreneurship.
The Minister shared this announcement He stated that the government is actively revising the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act, which plays a crucial role in facilitating the deployment of AI. Mutati urged Zambians to embrace AI, asserting, “AI is here to stay, and will significantly improve everyday life.”
In May 2024, at the Copperbelt Agricultural Mining Industrial Networking Enterprise (CAMINEX) event in Kitwe, Mutati announced that the government had completed drafting the AI strategy, harnessing the benefits of the latest technologies. He revealed that the AI strategy is slated for launch in July 2024. Speaking at a side event at CAMINEX, Mutati reassured the public, stating, “AI is here to stay, and Zambians must not fear its existence or the loss of jobs.”
He highlighted the economic benefits AI will bring to the country, including its potential to help Zambia achieve its ambition of producing three million tonnes of copper annually through enhanced exploration.
Zambia is not alone in its pursuit of AI integration. In April 2024, Nigeria enlisted 120 experts to develop a co-created framework to promote AI adoption, securing $3.5 million in seed funding from potential partners. Similarly, South Africa is considering AI regulation and plans to establish an AI Expert Advisory Council to guide policy creation and implementation.
