Africa-Press – Botswana. Data and technology remain the key drivers of thriving economies. Thus, investing in this dynamic problem-solving and innovation platform would guide Botswana’s economy towards swift growth and success.
This was said by the Minister of Communications and Innovation, Mr David Tshere while giving a keynote speech at the Mahalapye ICT Leaders Convention themed: Creating the ICT Roadmap for the Next Five Years. He also emphasised that involving stakeholders from both government and the private sector in creating the ICT roadmap for the next five years sought to make certain that all technology sectors were addressed to act as a guide for growth, inclusivity, and sustainability.
Likewise, he highlighted that innovation and productivity were enhanced through partnerships. He urged multiple sectors to collaborate in creating a plan that focused on digital infrastructure and connectivity, enhancing capacity and skills, along with offering support for innovation, entrepreneurship, and policy development.
“As leaders, we should not just adopt new technologies like quantum computing, blockchain, and the Internet of Things; we need to spearhead their integration into daily life, fostering efficiency, sustainability, and advancement,” he added.
Mr Tshere highlighted that although technology, especially Artificial Intelligence (AI), provides solutions and simplified tasks for all, ethical and responsible utilisation must always be maintained.
“As we adopt Artificial Intelligence, make decisions based on data, and automate government services, we must guarantee that our progress maintains privacy, security, and ethical principles. Advancement should not occur at the cost of essential human rights and principles,” he said.
For his part, CEO of the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA), Mr Martin Mokgware, mentioned that BOCRA’s role as a regulatory agency was to ensure adherence to laws concerning communications and data.
He noted that to draw tech investors, Botswana must reassess its technology and communications regulations to establish a favourable atmosphere for business activities and implement strict measures to protect users from cyber attacks.
Additionally, he urged both individuals and businesses to become acquainted with regulations related to information, communication, and technology, like the Data Protection Act, to prevent ending up on the wrong side of the law.
Business Botswana president, Mr Neo Nwako advocated for automating the government procurement system, stating that it would provide all vendors an equal opportunity and assist in eliminating corruption. He stated that the system would enhance efficiency and productivity for both governmental entities and businesses.
Additionally, he recommended investing in the upskilling of existing ICT graduates to address the deficiency caused by the shortage of skilled workers capable of managing technical issues related to emerging technologies, which frequently results in outsourcing jobs overseas, an approach that proves costly for all businesses.
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