Zambia Joins Global AI Organisation

Zambia has been named a founding member of the newly established World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO), a milestone that strengthens the country's role in shaping international cooperation on artificial intelligence.

The agreement establishing the intergovernmental body was signed on behalf of the Zambian Government by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Technology and Science, Brilliant Habeenzu, in Shanghai, China, on Thursday, 16th July.

Launched by the Chinese Government, WAICO is designed to advance global cooperation and governance in artificial intelligence, while ensuring that AI technologies are developed in a manner that is safe, fair and inclusive. A central aim of the organisation is to close the widening AI gap by helping developing nations, particularly those across the Global South, share in the benefits of emerging technology.

The signing ceremony was attended by United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres. China's Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, signed first on behalf of the host nation, with Zambia joining 28 other countries from Africa, Asia, Europe and South America as founding members.

Government says the membership reflects Zambia's national priorities on artificial intelligence and builds on the adoption of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy under President Hakainde Hichilema's administration. The move positions the country to tap into global expertise, investment and innovation in one of the world's fastest-growing sectors.

In a further boost for developing economies, Chinese President Xi Jinping has pledged 5,000 artificial intelligence training and seminar opportunities over the next five years.