The National Assembly of Zambia has taken a significant step towards embracing technology governance by adopting a motion urging the government to develop a comprehensive policy and legal framework to regulate Artificial Intelligence (AI). The motion was moved by Solwezi East UPND Member of Parliament, Alex Katakwe, and seconded by Kanyama UPND MP, Monty Chinkuli.
During the parliamentary debate, Katakwe stressed the urgency of creating a regulatory framework for AI, highlighting that the technology’s rapid evolution presents both opportunities and challenges for Zambia. “Madam Speaker, indeed, setting up a regulatory framework in Zambia for AI statutes is urgent and cannot be delayed anymore,” Katakwe said. He pointed out that AI technologies come with unique characteristics, distinct advantages, and potential drawbacks that require a structured legal response.
Katakwe emphasized that without proper legislation, Zambia risks falling behind in managing emerging AI risks such as data privacy violations, job displacement, ethical concerns, and security threats, while also missing out on economic and developmental benefits the technology offers.
Seconding the motion, Chinkuli supported the call for timely action, urging policymakers to ensure that the forthcoming framework addresses key issues such as ethical AI use, cybersecurity, and responsible innovation. He stressed that legislation must promote the safe adoption of AI while protecting citizens’ rights.
The adoption of this motion signals growing recognition within Zambia’s legislative body of the need to prepare the nation for the digital transformation sweeping across global economies. By setting the groundwork for AI regulation, the government aims to harness the benefits of emerging technologies while mitigating associated risks.
Going forward, the Ministry of Science and Technology, alongside other relevant government bodies, is expected to engage key stakeholders, including technology experts, academia, civil society, and private sector players, in drafting the necessary legislation.
The move aligns Zambia with global trends, where countries are working to balance technological advancement with ethical and regulatory oversight. Once implemented, Zambia’s AI legal framework will mark a milestone in the nation’s journey towards safe and inclusive digital innovation.