Tanzania is prepared to enter the world of AI.

The Information and Communication Technologies Commission (ICTC) of Tanzania recently underscored the nation's preparedness to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, affirming that it will not lead to job losses but rather enhance productivity and reshape the workforce. Dr. Nkundwe Mwasaga, Director-General of ICTC, delivered this message during a keynote address at the Tanzania Employers Association (ATE)'s Annual General Meeting in Dar es Salaam.

Dr. Mwasaga reassured Tanzanians that AI represents a transformative opportunity rather than a threat to employment. He emphasized that AI will revolutionize work processes, requiring individuals to acquire new skills in fields such as robot coordination, machine learning training, AI ethics, chatbot design, and AI-powered healthcare technology. These emerging professions, he noted, will play pivotal roles in leveraging AI for economic growth and efficiency across various sectors.

Highlighting Tanzania's proactive stance, Dr. Mwasaga announced the country's participation in Africa's inaugural AI and robotics competition, slated for October. Supported by the African Union (AU), the New Partnership for Africa's Development (AU-NEPAD), and the ElevateAI Institute, this competition aims to foster local talent in AI and robotics with a substantial prize pool of $100,000. The initiative seeks to cultivate innovation and position African youth as leaders in AI-driven technologies.

Dr. Mwasaga also lauded public institutions like the High Court of Tanzania for pioneering AI integration in judicial proceedings. He cited the High Court's adoption of AI to automate and streamline courtroom activities, reducing paperwork and expediting case resolutions. Professor Elisante Ole Gabriel, Chief Court Administrator, affirmed the court's commitment to full AI integration by 2025. He highlighted the benefits of AI in facilitating multilingual translations of legal documents and proceedings, thereby enhancing accessibility and efficiency within the judiciary.

In conclusion, Dr. Mwasaga underscored the pivotal role of artificial intelligence (AI) in steering Tanzania towards a future characterized by robust digital transformation and sustainable development. He emphasized that sustained investment in AI education and infrastructure is crucial for harnessing the full potential of technological advancements. By fostering a skilled workforce capable of leveraging AI tools effectively, Tanzania aims to not only enhance its economic competitiveness but also to improve the delivery of essential services to its citizens.

Dr. Mwasaga highlighted the strategic adoption of AI technologies as pivotal in driving innovation across various sectors of the economy. From healthcare to judiciary operations, AI promises to streamline processes, optimize resource allocation, and foster efficiency. The integration of AI in public institutions, such as the High Court of Tanzania's use of AI for case management and translation services, exemplifies Tanzania's commitment to embracing digital solutions for enhanced governance and service delivery.

Moreover, Dr. Mwasaga praised initiatives like the African Union-supported AI and robotics competition, which aims to cultivate young talent passionate about AI across the continent. Such initiatives not only nurture innovation but also position Tanzania as a hub for AI expertise and innovation in Africa. The significant prize pool allocated to the competition underscores the country's dedication to fostering a conducive environment for emerging technologies.

Looking ahead, Dr. Mwasaga urged stakeholders to continue supporting AI initiatives, advocating for responsible AI usage and ethics. By fostering collaboration between government, academia, and the private sector, Tanzania can harness AI's transformative potential to achieve inclusive growth, drive innovation, and improve the overall quality of life for its citizens in the rapidly evolving digital age.