Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 26th March, 2025.
Paris, France.
Zambia is taking significant strides in advancing science diplomacy and artificial intelligence (AI) governance on the global stage through strategic collaborations with UNESCO.
During two pivotal engagements at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, Dr. Larry L. Mweetwa, Director of Science, Technology, and Innovation at the Ministry of Technology and Science, reinforced Zambia’s commitment to international scientific cooperation and ethical AI development.
Representing Hon. Felix C. Mutati, MP, Minister of Technology and Science, Dr. Mweetwa participated in the UNESCO Global Science Ministerial Dialogue on Science Diplomacy from March 25–26, 2025. He emphasized the need for greater international cooperation in research, knowledge sharing, and policy harmonization to tackle global challenges such as pandemics and AI governance.
Dr. Mweetwa highlighted that open science, data sharing, and joint research initiatives are critical in addressing pressing global issues. He underscored the importance of global scientific alliances in mitigating geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding intellectual property rights linked to scientific advancements.
The UNESCO Global Science Ministerial Dialogue serves as a platform for ministers, scientists, and diplomats to exchange ideas and develop a new framework for science diplomacy that supports peacebuilding, human rights protection, and technological progress.
Parallel to the science diplomacy discussions, Zambia has secured UNESCO’s commitment to conduct a comprehensive national AI readiness assessment. This initiative aims to evaluate Zambia’s legal, technical, economic, and educational preparedness for AI adoption and ensure alignment with global ethical standards.
Mr. Irakli Khodeli, Head of UNESCO’s Ethics of AI Unit, confirmed UNESCO’s readiness to assist Zambia in developing a robust AI governance framework. The assessment, spanning four months, will provide evidence-based insights to shape Zambia’s AI policies and strategy.
Additionally, UNESCO has invited Zambia to participate in the Global Forum on AI Ethics in Bangkok, Thailand (June 2025) and join the Global Network of AI Supervisory Authorities, which promotes responsible AI use and safeguards against potential risks.
Dr. Mweetwa emphasized the Zambian government’s proactive approach, noting that the country is establishing an AI National Council and sector-specific technical working groups to oversee AI deployment across industries such as healthcare, agriculture, and education.
“We are committed to ensuring AI serves the needs of our people while adhering to ethical standards. Partnering with UNESCO will provide Zambia with the necessary guidance and technical support to navigate the evolving AI landscape,” he stated.
Zambia’s engagement with UNESCO underscores the country’s ambition to position itself as a leader in science, technology, and ethical AI development. By championing science diplomacy and embracing global AI governance frameworks, Zambia is setting the stage for sustainable innovation, international research partnerships, and responsible technology adoption.
These collaborative efforts signal a transformative period for Zambia, reinforcing its role in shaping global scientific discourse and AI ethics while driving national progress in research, education, and technological advancement.
The Agency Media.