Online Reporter
Farirai Machivenyika in VICTORIA Falls
THE SADC Parliamentary Forum has resolved to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the region’s current systems, infrastructure and skills, which will inform the development of a strategic roadmap for the adoption of Artificial Intelligence.
The resolution is contained in a communique released at the end of an AI Symposium held at the 57th SADC PF Plenary Assembly.
The Plenary Assembly resolved that the adoption of AI was inevitable, despite the associated risks.
“SADC Member States are encouraged to embrace AI as the benefits far outweigh the pitfalls,” read part of the communique.
“Parliaments are encouraged to undertake a comprehensive evaluation of current systems, including infrastructure and skills gaps, to inform the development of a Strategic Roadmap for AI adoption.
“The evaluation should also be alive to the risks associated with AI. SADC Parliaments are urged to roll out targeted capacity-building programmes for Members and Staff to enhance AI literacy, ethical awareness and practical application in Parliamentary processes.”
On infrastructure development, the SADC PF noted that AI required immense computing power, vast data storage and advanced algorithms and that traditional infrastructures may be ill-suited to support these demands and called on Member States to mobilise domestic resources and encourage public – private partnerships to modernise infrastructure and ensure that any investments in AI are maximised.
“Parliaments must oversee the equitable roll-out of AI in Member States by ensuring that everyone, regardless of location or socio-economic status, has equal access to technology and digital literacy skills.
“The adoption of AI must leave no one and no place behind. Parliaments, through the enactment of appropriate legislation, must create an enabling legislative and policy environment for the adoption of AI, while guaranteeing the safety and security of users and the nation from the latent threats to personal and national security.”
The SADC PF also encouraged Member States to finalise the development of the Model Law on AI to provide a reference point for SADC Parliaments in the development and/or improvement of national AI-related legislation.
“The SADC PF and national Parliaments must urge SADC Member States, through the SADC Secretariat, to initiate a consultative process towards the development of a regional legal and regulatory framework on the responsible use of AI,” the communique read.
