The Zambian Ministry of Technology and Science has unveiled its Artificial Intelligence Strategy, a comprehensive and practical roadmap aimed at advancing the nation's transition to a digital technology-driven economy.

Speaking at the launch event in Lusaka, Minister of Science and Technology Felix Mutati expressed enthusiasm about the potential of AI technology to accelerate the country’s digital economic transformation, creating both wealth and employment opportunities.

The minister highlighted that AI technology is driving global economic paradigm shifts, serving as a precise technological catalyst that Zambia must embrace by first establishing a supportive technology environment to achieve a digital revolution. 

He added AI will play a transformative role in enhancing public service delivery nationwide, Tech Africa News reports.

“AI will enhance public service delivery, ensuring efficiency, convenience, and elimination of redundancy, so that we are able to grow the economy quicker and faster,” he commented.

Furthermore, Hon. Mutati noted that AI will create opportunities for innovators and entrepreneurs to accelerate technological advancements with greater precision and stay aligned with dynamic technological changes. 

He further observed that AI’s advanced capabilities will significantly enhance data assimilation and streamline efficient teacher-student learning processes in education. Additionally, it will promote sustainable service delivery in key sectors such as health, agriculture, and more.

Moreover, the Minister praised Zambian experts for their significant contributions to the development of the AI Strategy, which was further enriched through the support of collaborative partners, including Finland, the Tony Blair Foundation, and others. Their efforts helped elevate the strategy to internationally recognised standards.

In addition, Mutati outlined the implementation framework of the AI Strategy, which will be based on five key pillars. 

These include ‘digital trees’ to improve connectivity, ‘reliable data’ to ensure efficiency and sustainability, and ‘trust and confidence’ to secure cyberspace.

The strategy also focuses on fostering ‘innovation and entrepreneurship’ as well as establishing a ‘partnership and collaboration’ platform to promote idea exchange and sustain innovation.

Mutati went on to add that Zambia is one of the few African countries to have developed an AI Strategy.