Zambia has launched an Artificial Intelligence Sensitisation Workshop under the Inclusive Digitalization in Eastern and Southern Africa (IDEA) Programme, bringing together government, regional institutions and development partners to strengthen AI governance and promote the responsible adoption of emerging technologies.
The initiative is being implemented by the Ministry of Technology and Science in collaboration with the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Secretariat and the World Bank. It represents the first structured activity under the Stakeholder Engagement Plan for the AI and Emerging Technologies Consultancy.
The workshop aims to build awareness of artificial intelligence, strengthen institutional capacity and support the development of harmonised AI policies and regulatory frameworks across the COMESA region. Stakeholder consultations will also contribute to the formulation of both Zambia’s national AI agenda and the COMESA Regional Artificial Intelligence Strategy.
Officials highlighted AI’s growing potential to transform sectors including agriculture, healthcare, education and finance while driving innovation, improving public service delivery and accelerating economic growth.
The initiative also seeks to address critical issues surrounding AI governance, including data protection, ethical AI, cybersecurity, consumer protection, digital skills development and regulatory readiness, ensuring the region can maximise the benefits of emerging technologies responsibly.
Zambia reaffirmed its commitment to digital transformation through continued investments in broadband infrastructure, e-government services, digital identity, cybersecurity and digital payments. The country also highlighted its participation in the US$2.48 billion IDEA Programme, which supports more than 15 countries in expanding digital connectivity and harmonising digital policies across Eastern and Southern Africa.
The workshop reinforces the importance of regional collaboration between governments, academia, the private sector, civil society and development partners in building an inclusive, secure and innovation-driven digital economy.
