Embrace AI to drive development: President Mnangagwa

Vusumuzi Dube in Victoria Falls

THE Fourth Industrial Revolution, anchored on the increased impact of Artificial Intelligence within, should not only be accepted but various governments must incorporate it in their governancy systems to help further economic and technological development.

Speaking at the official opening of the 57th Plenary Assembly Session of the SADC Parliamentary Forum in Victoria Falls yesterday, President Mnangagwa, who is also the SADC chairperson said the fourth industrial revolution was now a reality that had to be accepted.

The forum, which is running up to Saturday, is being held under the theme: “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI) for effective and efficient Parliamentary processes in the SADC Region: Experiences, Challenges and Opportunities.”

President Mnangagwa said the Fourth Industrial Revolution was characterised by a fusion of emerging technologies, which were blurring the lines between the physical, digital, and biological spheres.

“Cyber-physical systems have proliferated in all facet s of society and economic activity within Africa and beyond, anchored on Artificial Intelligence and innovation. For SADC Parliaments, the potential benefits of artificial intelligence and innovative technologies are multi-pronged. These offer solutions for resource optimisation, which will in turn enable our Parliament

“Additionally, technology can bridge the gap between parliamentarians and citizens in our geographically dispersed constituencies. This will enable more direct and frequent interaction, thereby improving representation, accountability and involvement of grassroot communities in parliamentary processes,” said President.

He said the rise on the impact of Artificial Intelligence on a global scale comes a time when the strategic vision of SADC emphasises technological cooperation and knowledge sharing, as means to strengthen democratic institutions across the region.

President Mnangagwa said as the Fourth Industrial Revolution transforms the world, it was critically important that all socio-economic sectors accordingly adapt, including parliamentarians.