The “AI Playbook for Small States” was released by Rwanda and Singapore at the UN Summit of the Future (SOTF) in New York City. The goal of this playbook is to assist smaller countries in navigating the challenges associated with adopting artificial intelligence (AI).
The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) of Singapore and the Ministry of ICT and Innovation of Rwanda contributed to the development of the playbook, which was created by the Digital Forum of Small States (Digital FOSS) and features lessons and best practices from its members. Implementing AI initiatives can present special difficulties for small nations due to a lack of funding, a talent scarcity, and the complexity of creating governance structures.
Singapore’s Minister for Digital Development and Information, Josephine Teo, stated that her nation has made efforts to pinpoint typical roadblocks and highlight workable alternatives for the successful adoption of AI. Among other topics, the paper addresses AI development, governance, safety, and societal impact. Small governments might thus gain from one another’s experiences in creating AI rules that are customised to meet their unique needs.
The national AI policy of Rwanda was adopted in 2023, with the purpose of harnessing AI to drive economic growth, raise the standard of life, and establish Rwanda as a leader in the world for responsible and inclusive AI. Digital FOSS, which was established in 2022, gives tiny states a cooperative forum to handle issues related to technology and digital policy. The goal of the AI Playbook is to develop inclusive digital frameworks that enable small nations to use AI for economic growth and societal advancement. It is in line with global initiatives like the Global Digital Compact and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations.
A study conducted by McKinsey and Rwanda’s Ministry of ICT and Innovation suggests that if the government invests $76.5 million in implementing its national AI policy, it might earn $589 million in the following five years. Paula Ingabire, the Minister of ICT for Rwanda, stated that the foundation of the program is the identification of important industries with the greatest economic influence, such as manufacturing, financial services, agriculture, public administration, education, and health.
Small nations can more effectively address the challenges of AI adoption and governance by combining their resources, expertise, and experiences. By means of this program, they may foster innovation and foster a more equitable and sustainable digital environment, so converting obstacles into chances for advancement and progress.
