Tanzania to Establish Specialized AI Institution

Tanzania is taking a significant step to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of Artificial Intelligence with the establishment of a dedicated institution. The new center, launched at the United African University of Tanzania (UAUT) in Dar es Salaam, will focus on guiding AI's development, investment, and ethical application within the country.

Experts believe this specialized body is crucial for building a solid AI foundation for Tanzanians. It will manage AI institutions, oversee research, and act as a bridge between companies and the government. Dr. Dennis Mwighusa, Executive Director of the Artificial Intelligence Research Institute of Africa (Arifa), stressed the importance of such an agency, noting that countries like Rwanda already have similar structures in place.

"What is needed is a specialized institution or agency that will manage all AI activities, for example, it can be used to manage all AI institutions," Dr. Mwighusa stated. He also highlighted that AI education should extend beyond IT professionals to include sectors like health, agriculture, law, and business. The government is urged to invest in local talent, ongoing training, and ethical frameworks to foster domestic AI capabilities rather than relying on external knowledge.

Economist Francis Nyonzo pointed out the need for oversight to ensure AI applications are used ethically and do not violate Tanzanian interests. Senior Education Specialist Engineer Henry Kulaya added that a dedicated AI institution would accelerate its development. He also reassured that AI cannot replace human intelligence, which relies on decision-making, creativity, critical thinking, and ethics, emphasizing that higher education institutions must adapt their teaching methods to produce individuals with these essential human skills.

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What is needed is a specialized institution or agency that will manage all AI activities, for example, it can be used to manage all AI institutions.