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Mozambique establishes national commission to advise government on AI ethics, regulation and workforce
Mozambique launched a national AI commission in April to advise its government on ethics, regulation, and security. The CNIA reports to the Council of Ministers and covers policy, workforce training, and international cooperation.
Mozambique Creates National AI Commission to Guide Government Policy
Mozambique has established a National Commission for Artificial Intelligence to advise the government on the ethical, legal, security and social dimensions of AI. The commission, known by its Portuguese acronym CNIA, came into force in April through a Council of Ministers decree.
The body reports directly to the Council of Ministers and operates from headquarters in Maputo. Its core mandate is to ensure the adoption of responsible AI practices while developing regulatory frameworks, education programmes, scientific research capabilities, cybersecurity standards and technological innovation.
What the Commission Will Do
The CNIA will prepare opinions on proposed policies, strategies and action plans related to AI development. It will assess whether individual initiatives adequately address ethical, legal, security and social considerations.
The commission will also advise on AI's impact on Mozambique's workforce, including guidance on workforce training programmes and the establishment of education institutions in the field. It will evaluate funding for strategic AI programmes and monitor implementation of international AI recommendations.
Additional responsibilities include issuing opinions on legal and regulatory instruments for AI development, recommending investment initiatives, and advising on international cooperation opportunities with research partners on standards and regulatory harmonization.
Leadership and Membership
The minister overseeing information and communication technologies chairs the commission. The ministers responsible for national defence and education serve as vice-chairs.
Membership includes officials and specialists selected from the public and private sectors, academia and civil society. Members are chosen for their experience in AI, science and innovation.