By Prosper Makene
Geneva— Tanzania has called for stronger international cooperation to ensure that the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is governed by inclusive, transparent and equitable global frameworks, warning that developing countries must not be left behind as the technology reshapes economies and societies.
Speaking before more than 190 delegates representing governments, international organizations, the private sector and the global technology community at the Global Dialogue on AI Governance, the Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Hon. Angellah Kairuki (MP), presented Tanzania’s vision for harnessing AI as a catalyst for national development while strengthening safeguards to promote its responsible use.
The Minister said Tanzania regards artificial intelligence as a strategic pillar of the country’s Vision 2050 and an important driver of the emerging digital economy. She noted that the Government is undertaking comprehensive reforms to establish a robust policy and regulatory framework that supports innovation while protecting citizens’ rights and ensuring public trust.
“Tanzania believes artificial intelligence has the potential to transform agriculture, healthcare, education, financial services and public administration,” Hon. Kairuki said. “Its deployment must therefore be safe, inclusive and designed to deliver benefits to all citizens.”
She outlined measures being implemented to strengthen AI governance, including the development of regulatory frameworks, modernization of data governance systems, enhanced privacy and cybersecurity protections, and the formulation of national guidelines governing the application of AI in strategic sectors such as education and health.
The Minister also highlighted the Government’s continued investment in digital infrastructure, pointing to the expansion of the National ICT Broadband Backbone (NICTBB) and the development of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as critical foundations for extending digital connectivity and enabling wider access to AI-powered services across the country.
Beyond domestic reforms, Hon. Angellah Kairuki emphasized that effective AI governance requires sustained international collaboration.
She 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 advance interoperable digital ecosystems that facilitate innovation, trade and cross-border services while safeguarding national sovereignty and data protection.
Concluding her address, Minister Kairuki called for greater global cooperation in technology transfer, skills development, research partnerships, innovation and investment in digital infrastructure. She stressed that bridging the digital divide would require collective action to ensure that the benefits of artificial intelligence are shared equitably across both developed and developing economies.
The Global Dialogue on AI Governance brings together policymakers, government leaders, technology experts, and private-sector stakeholders from around the world to shape international approaches to AI governance and explore how artificial intelligence can contribute to inclusive and sustainable development.
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