Tanzania’s Call for Global AI Cooperation
Tanzania has emphasized the need for stronger international collaboration to ensure that the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is guided by inclusive, transparent, and equitable global frameworks. The country has warned that developing nations must not be left behind as AI transforms economies and societies.
This call was made on Monday, July 6, 2026, by the Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Angellah Kairuki, during the Global Dialogue on AI Governance in Geneva. She addressed over 190 delegates representing governments, international organizations, the private sector, and the global technology community. In her speech, Ms. Kairuki outlined Tanzania’s vision of using AI as a catalyst for national development while strengthening safeguards to promote its responsible use.
AI as a Strategic Pillar
She stated that Tanzania views artificial intelligence as a strategic pillar of Vision 2050 and a key driver of the country’s emerging digital economy. The government is implementing comprehensive reforms to establish a robust policy and regulatory framework that supports innovation while protecting citizens’ rights and strengthening public trust.
“Tanzania believes artificial intelligence has the potential to transform agriculture, healthcare, education, financial services, and public administration,” she said, adding that its deployment must therefore be safe, inclusive, and designed to deliver benefits to all citizens.
Strengthening AI Governance
Ms. Kairuki also highlighted the government’s efforts to strengthen AI governance through the development of regulatory frameworks, the modernization of data governance systems, enhanced privacy and cybersecurity protections, and the formulation of national guidelines for applying AI in strategic sectors, including education and healthcare.
She noted continued government investment in digital infrastructure, citing the expansion of the National ICT Broadband Backbone (NICTBB) and the development of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as critical foundations for expanding digital connectivity and enabling wider access to AI-powered services nationwide.
Importance of International Collaboration
The minister reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to working closely with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the African Union (AU), the African Telecommunications Union (ATU), the East African Community (EAC), and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to promote interoperable digital ecosystems that support innovation, trade, and cross-border services while safeguarding national sovereignty and data protection.
Concluding her address, Ms. Kairuki called for stronger global cooperation in technology transfer, skills development, research partnerships, innovation, and investment in digital infrastructure. She emphasized that bridging the digital divide would require collective action to ensure the benefits of artificial intelligence are shared equitably between developed and developing countries.
The Role of the Global Dialogue on AI Governance
The Global Dialogue on AI Governance brings together policymakers, government leaders, technology experts, and private-sector stakeholders from around the world to shape international approaches to AI governance and explore how artificial intelligence can support inclusive and sustainable development.
