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Emphasizing the importance of fostering a conducive environment for AI deployment, Zambia’s Minister announced significant strides in revising the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act, a pivotal step in facilitating AI initiatives.
The Minister unveiled these developments via a post on X during the launch of the Future of AI in Africa Conference held in Lusaka.
Earlier in May 2024, at the Copperbelt Agricultural Mining Industrial Networking Enterprise (CAMINEX) event in Kitwe, the Minister had disclosed that Zambia had completed drafting its AI strategy, geared towards harnessing the transformative potential of advanced technologies. The strategy is slated for official launch in July 2024.
Moreover, Zambia’s ICT sector is set to receive updated guidelines aimed at regulating professional conduct. The Technology and Science Minister recently announced plans to introduce a Statutory Instrument (SI) to oversee the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector. This initiative aims to promote ethical standards and best practices among ICT practitioners, addressing misconduct and irregularities.
Zambia joins other African nations in advancing AI frameworks. In April 2024, Nigeria engaged 120 experts to co-create a national framework promoting AI adoption, backed by $3.5 million in seed funding from potential partners.
Similarly, South Africa is progressing with AI regulation, planning to establish an AI Expert Advisory Council to advise on policy formulation and implementation in the AI sector.
These initiatives underscore Africa’s commitment to leveraging AI for sustainable development and economic growth, with Zambia positioning itself as a key player in the region’s evolving technological landscape.
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