By Philip Buda Ladu
South Sudan has identified three crucial pillars necessary to effectively harness the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) for national development.
Dr. Lado Wani Kenyi, Undersecretary for Telecommunication at the National Ministry of Information, Communication Technology and Postal Services, articulated these pillars while attending the Kigali Global Artificial Intelligence Summit in Rwanda on Thursday.
Addressing world leaders at the summit, Dr. Kenyi emphasized that without robust infrastructure, a high-quality data center, and a skilled human resource base, South Sudan will struggle to reap the benefits of AI.
“Without proper infrastructure, quality data center and trained human resource, the country will hardly benefit from Artificial Intelligence,” he stated.
Recognizing the importance of youth engagement, Dr. Kenyi announced that the government plans to prioritize youth and human resource development in upcoming World Bank projects. This initiative aims to provide AI training opportunities for young people, laying the groundwork for digital trade and businesses.
The Undersecretary also highlighted the World Bank’s recent approval of funding for South Sudan to extend its fiber optic cable network. This investment is seen as a critical step in establishing a solid foundation for digital transformation, a prerequisite for successful AI integration.
Dr. Kenyi’s remarks underscore South Sudan’s commitment to embracing technological advancements and ensuring its citizens are equipped to participate in the global digital economy.
The focus on infrastructure, data management, and human capital development reflects a strategic approach to leveraging AI for sustainable growth and progress in the young East African country.