Lesotho is developing a National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy and Data Centre Blueprint to build secure data infrastructure.
In collaboration with the United Nations (UN), the government is hosting a five-day workshop in Maseru to define the strategic direction for both initiatives.
The strategy establishes a framework for AI adoption, while the blueprint guides the development of resilient infrastructure to support the country’s growing digital needs.
The Mountain Kingdom must approach the development of these tools with vigilance and strategic foresight, according to deputy prime minister, Justice Nthomeng Majara.
While Lesotho must keep pace with the rapidly evolving global technological landscape, the country must also recognise and build upon its own capabilities, Majara said, cautioning against investing blindly in AI without establishing the necessary safeguards and capacity.
The Southern African nation must protect its infrastructure, policy and human capacity to respond effectively to emerging technologies, she adds.
The Ministry of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation (MICSTI) brought together more than 100 stakeholders to validate three key national instruments: the AI Policy, Data Management Policy, and Broadband and Shared Infrastructure Policy, ICT minister Nthati Moorosi said.
These elements form part of the foundation upon which Lesotho is building its digital transformation agenda, providing policy direction for the use of emerging technologies, management of data and the sharing of critical digital infrastructure.
The initiative seeks to leverage technology, data and innovation to improve public services, strengthen digital infrastructure and promote socio-economic development, according to MICSTI.
The ministry remains committed to working with national stakeholders and development partners, including the UN in Lesotho, to strengthen the country’s digital ecosystem while ensuring that the adoption of emerging technologies is secure, inclusive and aligned with national development priorities, it said.
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