Zambia is positioned itself to capitalise on major economic prospects through Artificial Intelligence (AI), with projections estimating that the technology might add up to 8% to the country's GDP by 2030.
The forecast was made by Brilliant Habeenzu, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Technology and Science, during a media and civil society awareness session on AI and civic participation.
The Southern African country's goal to obtain a significant share of the AI industry comes as the technology has already been identified as a catalyst for digital entrepreneurship and job development, particularly among youth and women.
With applications in agriculture, healthcare, financial technology, and e-commerce, the technology could help Zambia diversify its economy beyond its heavy reliance on copper.
The Panos Institute of Southern Africa hosted the workshop, which was supported by Diakonia Zambia through the Deepening Democracy Facility.
The session focused on AI's revolutionary potential in revolutionising governance, economic growth, and citizen participation.
Habeenzu pointed out that President Hakainde Hichilema's government is committed to providing a robust policy and regulatory environment for AI adoption.
This involves tightening the Data Protection Act, aligning governance with global best practices, and implementing the recently released National AI Strategy alongside the National Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy.
“These frameworks are designed to promote digital skills training, establish innovation hubs, reform regulations, and foster partnerships with academia, civil society and the private sector,” Habeenzu said.
Civil society organisations have been identified as crucial participants in encouraging responsible AI use.
Their responsibilities include increasing awareness, advocating inclusivity, and improving digital literacy, ensuring that communities understand both the benefits and threats of AI.
“Collaboration among government, civil society organisations, media, and the private sector was identified as crucial to building an ethical and inclusive AI ecosystem,” Habeenzu added.
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