Tanzania hosts AI And Robotics Competition

In a landmark event underscoring Tanzania’s commitment to technological innovation, the country will host the inaugural Africa Youth in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics Competition and award ceremony this October.

The event, themed “Unleashing the Power of AI and Robotics for Social-Economic Transformation,” represents a significant step in Tanzania’s digital economy drive and its aspiration to become a technology hub in Africa.

Organized in collaboration with the African Union (AU) and the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AU-NEPAD), alongside the EleVate AI Institute, the competition will feature a prize pool of $100,000. This initiative aims to nurture emerging talent and provide a platform for young African minds passionate about AI and robotics, promoting responsible AI usage across the continent.

In a related display of technological advancement, the Tanzanian Minister of Information, Communications and Information Technology, Hon. Nape Nnauye, was warmly received by a robot named Eunice during his presentation of the Ministry’s budget speech for the 2024/2025 fiscal year in the National Assembly, Dodoma. The robot’s presence in the parliamentary chamber is a testament to the nation’s progress in embracing scientific and technological innovation.

ReadMore;Robotic Reception for Nape in Parliament Today

“We continue to see major advancements in science and technology in the country. The use of a Robot like this in the Parliamentary chamber is a clear sign of the pace we have in implementing the government’s aspiration to transform Tanzania into a middle-income economy that utilizes science and technology,” said Minister Nnauye. He emphasized the government’s commitment to investing in the development of the information technology sector, including improving infrastructure, enhancing services, and increasing the use of technology across various sectors of the economy and society.

The Minister also highlighted the government’s strategy to strengthen science and technology education by ensuring the availability of scientific and technological equipment in schools and higher education institutions. This initiative aims to build a strong foundation for future professionals in the field.

The use of digital technology is not limited to the public sector. The private sector in Tanzania has also made significant strides, utilizing digital platforms to enhance financial, health, and business services. The National Assembly’s adoption of video conferencing networks for meetings and discussions is another example of how digital advancements are reducing costs and improving efficiency in parliamentary activities.

Experts in the science and technology sector agree that continued investment in producing new professionals and strengthening research institutions is crucial for Tanzania’s development. This will enhance the country’s ability to address various developmental challenges and further its goal of becoming a technology-driven economy.

The upcoming Africa Youth in AI and Robotics Competition symbolizes a pivotal moment in Tanzania’s technological journey, promising to inspire a new generation of innovators and position the nation as a leader in the digital age.