Tanzania to host inaugural AI forum to drive inclusive innovation

Dar es Salaam. The National ICT Commission (ICTC) has announced the launch of the Tanzania Artificial Intelligence (AI) Forum, a national platform aimed at empowering local start-ups, shaping policy frameworks, and strengthening the country’s capacity in the rapidly evolving field.

Scheduled for July 28 and 29, 2025, the annual forum will provide a space for critical dialogue and innovation, examining how AI can be harnessed to drive Tanzania’s socio-economic transformation.

Speaking in Dar es Salaam on June 20, 2025, ICTC Director General, Dr Nkundwe Mwasaga, described the initiative as timely and significant, given AI’s increasing role in everyday life.

“AI is unlike previous information technologies—it touches everyone. It affects not only end-users but also innovators, students, public servants, private sector players, and even farmers,” said Dr Mwasaga.

Held under the theme “Shaping the Future of Ethical Artificial Intelligence and Data Governance for Inclusive Socio-Economic Development,” the forum will seek to deepen public understanding of AI and its potential impact on national progress.

Furthermore, Dr Mwasaga said the theme underscores the importance of data ownership in driving technological advancement.

“Globally, countries that lead in AI tend to own and control vast amounts of data. Currently, most of the world’s data is stored in just two countries—the United States and China. Data enables innovation and competitiveness. That’s what we want to explore,” he said.

He pointed out that Tanzania has already laid critical foundations by establishing national data centres and enacting laws to protect personal data.

The upcoming forum will feature a wide range of discussions, covering general AI, generative AI, and emerging trends shaping the global AI landscape.

Global experts, including those from the European Union and the United States, have been invited to share insights and best practices.

“We will host specialists to discuss artificial general intelligence, and to explore the application and implications of generative AI,” said Dr Mwasaga.

One of the forum’s core objectives is to support evidence-based policy development, helping Tanzania craft data and innovation policies that enable inclusive digital growth.

“Part of the forum’s goal is to inform policymaking, so we can better understand what kind of policies are needed or how to enhance those already in place to keep pace with this technological revolution,” he added.

The platform will also serve as a springboard for early-stage tech companies, giving them the opportunity to showcase AI-driven innovations and access capacity-building resources.

“This forum will offer valuable exposure for local start-ups to present their AI solutions and connect with partners, investors, and regulators,” said Dr Mwasaga.

The Tanzania Artificial Intelligence Forum is expected to become a flagship event on the country’s digital calendar—fostering collaboration, innovation, and thought leadership as Tanzania advances towards a knowledge-based economy anchored on ethical and inclusive AI.