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UNESCO supports Consultations for AI Readiness Assessment in Tanzania
As Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to reshape societies across the globe, it presents both immense opportunities and significant challenges. To ensure that AI development in Tanzania is inclusive, ethical, and aligned with national priorities, UNESCO is undertaking an AI Readiness Assessment as part of the UNESCO/Patrick J. McGovern Foundation project "Harnessing the Power of AI to Promote Equal Opportunities in the Digital World."
To facilitate a comprehensive evaluation of Tanzania’s AI landscape, UNESCO organized National Consultations in Dar es Salaam on 18 February and Zanzibar on 20 February 2025. These consultations brought together policymakers, technology experts, academia, civil society, and private sector stakeholders to assess the country's preparedness for AI adoption. The discussions focused on key areas such as policy frameworks, ethical considerations, capacity building, and digital infrastructure.
This consultation provides a platform for us to assess Tanzania’s AI landscape, considering our legal and regulatory frameworks, social and cultural contexts, technological infrastructure, and economic potential. Through an inclusive, multi-stakeholder dialogue, we can develop actionable recommendations for AI governance, ensuring that AI technologies contribute to Tanzania’s long-term development aspirations.
During the consultations, participants examined the transformative potential of AI in sectors including education, healthcare, governance, and the media. While AI offers innovative solutions to improve service delivery and economic growth, concerns were raised about data privacy, algorithmic biases, and the digital divide that may exclude marginalized communities from benefiting equally from AI advancements.
Stakeholders also emphasized the need for:
Robust AI Policies and Regulations: Ensuring that AI development aligns with ethical standards and national priorities.
Capacity Building and Digital Skills Development: Investing in AI literacy and training programs to empower local talent.
Infrastructure and Investment: Strengthening digital infrastructure to support AI research and innovation.
Ethical AI Implementation: Addressing issues related to transparency, accountability, and fairness in AI systems.
AI is rapidly transforming societies across the globe, offering immense opportunities for economic growth, public service efficiency, and innovation. Here in Zanzibar and across the United Republic of Tanzania, AI is increasingly being adopted in sectors such as education, health, agriculture, and financial services. However, for AI to truly serve our national development goals, it must be ethical and inclusive.
The insights gathered from these consultations will contribute to a comprehensive AI Readiness Assessment Report for Tanzania. This report will serve as a roadmap for policymakers and stakeholders to design inclusive and responsible AI strategies that foster sustainable development and equal opportunities for all.
By engaging in these national discussions, Tanzania is taking proactive steps toward harnessing AI’s potential while addressing its challenges. UNESCO remains committed to supporting the country in building an AI ecosystem that is ethical, inclusive, and aligned with human rights principles.
