• The Zambia AI Framework promotes sustainable development, healthcare, education, and economic growth among its young population.  

• Zambia’s Science and Technology Minister Felix Mutati revealed an AI architecture in collaboration with the Tony Blair Institute.

• Zambia is also collaborating with the EU on a Startup Bill to establish a supportive environment for businesses interested in artificial intelligence.

Zambia’s Minister of Science and Technology, Felix Mutati, has announced that an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Framework is being established. This initiative marks a significant milestone for Zambia, following in the footsteps of Nigeria, which has already taken steps to develop a similar framework.

The Zambian government is formulating an AI Strategy in partnership with the Tony Blair Institute, renowned for providing strategic advice to governments and leaders globally.

In addition to this collaboration, Zambia is working with the European Union (EU) to develop a Startup Bill. This bill aims to create an enabling environment for startups, particularly those focused on AI and other emerging technologies.

Minister Mutati mentioned that the government is revising the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act, highlighting the significance of a robust framework for AI deployment. This revision is crucial for facilitating the secure and regulated deployment of AI.

The Minister disclosed these developments at the Future of AI in Africa Conference launch in Lusaka. This event underscored the growing importance of AI in shaping Africa’s technological landscape.

In May 2024, at the Copperbelt Agricultural Mining Industrial Networking Enterprise (CAMINEX) event in Kitwe, Mutati shared that the government had completed drafting the AI strategy. This Strategy aims to harness the benefits of the latest technologies, with a formal launch anticipated in July 2024.

Zambia AI Framework and the Future of AI in Africa

Zambia is one of many African nations making strides in AI. In April 2024, Nigeria enlisted 120 experts to co-create a framework promoting AI adoption in the country. The initial draft of Nigeria’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy secured $3.5 million in seed funding from potential partners, highlighting the significant investment and interest in AI across Africa.

Similarly, South Africa is considering AI regulation and plans to establish an AI Expert Advisory Council. This council will guide the creation and implementation of AI-related policies and regulations, ensuring that AI development aligns with national interests and ethical standards.

ALSO, READ Zambia test cryptocurrency regulation using blockchain technology.

The Future of AI in Africa conference in Lusaka highlighted these regional efforts, showcasing the continent’s collective push towards integrating AI into various sectors. Zambia’s proactive approach, including revising its Cyber Security and Crimes Act, positions it as a leader in this technological revolution.

Sarah Luyele Njamu, CEO of Compu-Connect Education Group and the conference’s organizer, emphasized Zambia’s advantageous position. She claimed that the country can leverage AI for economic growth, improved healthcare, enhanced education, and sustainable development.

ICT Sector Regulation

Minister Mutati announced plans to issue a Statutory Instrument (SI) to oversee the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector in early June. This initiative aims to curb misconduct and irregularities among professionals and ensure they adhere to ethical standards and best practices.

These new guidelines will be a significant step forward in regulating the ICT sector, aligning it with global standards, and facilitating the integration of AI technologies.

Minister Mutati announced that the Zambian government has initiated the process of creating an artificial intelligence framework. This framework, developed in collaboration with the Tony Blair Institute, aims to formulate a comprehensive AI strategy.

Minister Mutati revealed that revising the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act is critical in facilitating AI deployment. This announcement was made during the AI conference in Lusaka, emphasizing the importance of regulatory frameworks in AI development.

Sarah Luyele Njamu pointed to Zambia’s youthful population as another factor that works in the country’s favor. By disclosing its AI plans, Zambia joins a few African countries that have similarly signaled their intention to embrace the technology. In addition to voicing support for AI, Mutati has praised cryptocurrency, describing it as a “revolutionary technology” that Zambia needs.

As reported by Bitcoin.com News, Zambia has conducted real-life crypto usage simulations. Mutati stated that these simulations aim to balance innovation and citizens’ safety. The simulation results are expected to inform the formulation of crypto regulations.

ALSO, READ: The state of blockchain and cryptocurrency in Zambia.

Zambia AI’s strategic initiatives in developing an AI framework and revising its ICT sector regulations position it as a forward-thinking nation ready to harness AI’s benefits. By partnering with renowned institutions like the Tony Blair Institute and collaborating with international bodies such as the EU, Zambia is laying a solid foundation for AI integration.

The country’s efforts reflect a broader trend across Africa, where nations like Nigeria and South Africa also invest in AI frameworks and regulations. These collective efforts signal a promising future for AI in Africa, with the potential to drive economic growth, improve healthcare, enhance education, and promote sustainable development.

If you want to learn more about the upcoming Zambia AI Framework and initiatives and how they can benefit your organization, consider booking a consultation with our experts. They can provide valuable insights and help you navigate AI’s exciting opportunities for African businesses.