Zambia Strengthens Global Science Diplomacy and AI Collaboration with UNESCO
Zambia has reaffirmed its commitment to international scientific collaboration, with a focus on science diplomacy and ethical artificial intelligence (AI) governance. Director of Science, Technology, and Innovation at the Ministry of Technology and Science, Dr. Larry L. Mweetwa, emphasized the importance of global cooperation in research while representing Minister of Technology and Science, Hon. Felix C. Mutati, MP, at the UNESCO Global Science Ministerial Dialogue on Science Diplomacy in Paris.
Dr. Mweetwa emphasized that the conference serves as a crucial platform for fostering international partnerships in research and addressing pressing global challenges such as pandemics and AI governance.
He highlighted the need for harmonized research policies and joint initiatives to facilitate knowledge sharing and innovation. Stressing the role of global cooperation, he cited the COVID-19 pandemic as a prime example of how collective efforts can yield effective solutions.
Furthermore, Dr. Mweetwa underscored the role of science diplomacy in mitigating geopolitical tensions, particularly in relation to intellectual property rights and the equitable distribution of scientific advancements. The UNESCO Global Science Ministerial Dialogue seeks to establish a new framework for science diplomacy to address contemporary global challenges through dialogue, research collaboration, and the promotion of human rights.
In a significant development, UNESCO has expressed its willingness to support Zambia in conducting a comprehensive national AI readiness assessment. This initiative aims to facilitate the implementation of UNESCO’s recommendations on AI ethics and ensure Zambia’s strategic alignment with global best practices.
During a meeting with Dr. Mweetwa on the sidelines of the conference, UNESCO’s Head of the Ethics of AI Unit, Mr. Irakli Khodeli, outlined the methodology for the assessment, which will evaluate Zambia’s legal and regulatory frameworks, technical infrastructure, education and research capacities, and socio-economic considerations. The assessment, set to last four months, will involve experts conducting an in-depth analysis to identify opportunities and gaps in AI adoption.
Dr. Mweetwa welcomed the partnership, reaffirming Zambia’s dedication to ethical AI governance and its readiness to participate in UNESCO’s Global Forum on AI Ethics, scheduled for June 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand.
He also highlighted Zambia’s ongoing efforts to establish an AI National Council and sector-specific working groups to guide responsible AI deployment across key sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and education.
Mr. Khodeli further invited Zambia to join the Global Network of AI Supervisory Authorities, a move aimed at strengthening international collaboration on AI governance and ethical considerations.
“With this partnership, Zambia is taking proactive steps to ensure AI serves its citizens ethically and equitably,” Dr. Mweetwa stated. “Our engagement with UNESCO will provide us with critical insights to shape AI policies that align with global standards while addressing Zambia’s unique development needs.”
