BY SIFISO NHLABATSI
MBABANE – Eswatini has joined global discussions on the future of artificial intelligence (AI), with Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini participating in a high-level thematic session examining the opportunities and implications of AI for societies, economies and governments.
According to information shared by government, the Prime Minister attended the session on the margins of the Global Dialogue on AI in Geneva, where world leaders, policymakers and technology experts deliberated on how countries can harness artificial intelligence while addressing its ethical, social and technical challenges.
The thematic session, titled “AI Opportunities and Implications: Social, Economic, Ethical, Cultural, Linguistic and Technical Dimensions,” explored the far-reaching impact of AI and the need for balanced governance frameworks that encourage innovation while protecting public interests.
A key highlight of the programme was a fireside chat led by International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin, who engaged President Alar Karis of Estonia in a discussion on the transformative potential of artificial intelligence.
The conversation focused on how governments can responsibly integrate AI into public services and national development strategies while ensuring that technological advancements remain ethical, transparent and inclusive.
The programme also featured a series of high-level panel discussions bringing together global leaders and experts to examine both the opportunities and risks associated with the rapid growth of AI across multiple sectors.
Participants discussed AI’s potential to accelerate economic growth, improve public service delivery, strengthen innovation and create new opportunities for sustainable development. At the same time, they acknowledged the importance of addressing concerns relating to ethics, governance, cultural diversity, language inclusion and technological equity.
A recurring theme throughout the discussions was the need for human-centred AI systems that place people at the core of technological development and deployment. Speakers also stressed that international cooperation would be essential in ensuring that AI benefits are shared fairly across developed and developing countries alike.
Eswatini’s participation in the dialogue reflects the country’s growing interest in digital transformation and emerging technologies as part of its broader development agenda.
The Global Dialogue on AI provides a platform for governments, international organisations and industry leaders to exchange ideas on developing governance frameworks that promote innovation while safeguarding fundamental rights and ensuring AI is used responsibly for the benefit of all.
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