Dar es Salaam. Tanzania will host its first-ever Artificial Intelligence (AI) Forum next month, in a landmark move aimed at positioning the country as a regional hub for digital innovation and inclusive socio-economic growth.
The two-day forum, scheduled for July 28–29 in Dar es Salaam, is expected to bring together over 500 participants, including global experts, policymakers, academics, researchers, and innovators from countries such as Germany, Estonia, Finland, and members of the East African Community (EAC).
Organised under the theme “Building a Tanzania that Leverages AI in Line with Our Values and Data Governance for Inclusive Economic and Social Development,” the forum is designed to ignite a national conversation on responsible and strategic adoption of AI technologies.
Speaking ahead of the event, the Director General of the Information and Communication Technologies Commission (ICTC), Dr. Nkundwe Mwasaga, said the forum would delve into critical areas such as AI policy development, ethical data governance, digital skill-building, and AI infrastructure.
“This is not just another technology event—it’s about crafting a vision for Tanzania’s digital future,” said Dr. Mwasaga. “AI is now driving global transformation, and Tanzania must act decisively to ensure it leverages this opportunity for the benefit of all citizens.”
He said AI is already being implemented in parts of the country. A judicial institution began using AI systems two years ago, with applications now emerging in education, healthcare, and public service delivery.
“AI is unique in that it impacts all citizens—whether you’re a student, teacher, public official, or businessperson,” he said. “It is the first tool capable of mimicking human decision-making, which means we need a framework guided by our national values.”
The government, through the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, is finalising the country’s first National AI Strategy. This will be supported by the construction of a National Data Centre and the implementation of the Personal Data Protection Act, which was recently passed to ensure the safe and responsible use of digital information.
“Countries like the United States and China are gaining competitive advantages by controlling their data and investing in AI infrastructure. Tanzania must do the same—but in a way that reflects our own realities and development priorities,” Dr. Mwasaga said.
He noted that the upcoming forum would focus on how Tanzania can adopt AI for inclusive development, and how responsible data governance can accelerate national progress while leaving no one behind.
In addition to high-level policy discussions, the event will also serve as a platform for networking and collaboration, exposing local tech talent to global expertise and best practices. Participants are expected to influence future policies, educational reforms, and the development of Tanzania’s digital ecosystem.
“This is a defining moment. By engaging with AI now, we can prepare for a digital future that safeguards our data, upholds our values, and empowers every Tanzanian,” Dr. Mwasaga emphasised.
Meanwhile, Minister President Office, Planning and Investment, Prof. Kitila Mkumbo, speaking during the Annual General Meeting of the Dar es Salaam Press Club (Dar PC) on Friday, urged Tanzanian journalists to handle AI tools with care, particularly as misinformation and fake news become increasingly rampant on social media.
“I urge you all to do proper research and read more, so you can continue producing genuine, factual stories,” said Prof. Mkumbo.
He called on media houses to establish dedicated AI teams and to train journalists on how to effectively and ethically incorporate AI tools into content production and editorial workflows.
“It is wise for media organisations to embrace AI, not just for innovation, but also to strengthen professionalism in newsrooms,” he said.
The AI Forum is expected to act as a catalyst for shaping Tanzania’s future in the digital age, ensuring that technological advancements serve as tools for inclusive, sustainable development.