Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) Conference opened in Arusha, bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from the private sector and government. The conference's primary objective is to connect various stakeholders to foster sustainable development through the use of technology.
Addressing the participants at the Azaki (Civil Society) Conference in Arusha, Ahmed Khalid Abdula, the Registrar of Civil Society Organizations for the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar, emphasized the need for civil society organizations to assist communities in delivering accurate information on the appropriate use of technology. He stressed that embracing digital technologies, including artificial intelligence, offers economic empowerment opportunities and a pathway to sustainable progress.
Discussing the conference's main objective, Francis Kiwanga, the Executive Director of the Foundation for Civil Society, stated that the gathering aims to provide civil society organizations with a platform to discuss various issues, with a significant focus on how technology can facilitate and simplify their operations. He added that their discussions would enable participants to address questions related to technology, helping them adapt to the current global market.
"Different technology aspects will be discussed, including using technology to address water challenges in the country and how technology can assist agriculture in coping with climate change," Mr. Kiwanga stated.
Swiss Ambassador to Tanzania, Didier Chasot, highlighted his country's role in supporting civil society organizations' development in Tanzania for over 20 years. Switzerland firmly believes in the significant contribution of CSOs to sustainable development and social cohesion.
Returning to the core theme of the 2023 CSOs Conference, "Community and Technology," Ambassador Didier discussed the rapid technological and digital revolutions taking place worldwide, which bring both opportunities and challenges. He elaborated on Switzerland's digital foreign policy strategy, emphasizing how technology impacts issues such as cybersecurity and sustainable development.
Furthermore, the Ambassador underscored the importance of ensuring that everyone benefits from these revolutions and that no one is left behind. He encouraged participants to examine the existing digital divide and seek practical solutions during the conference.
The 2023 CSOs Conference will delve into technology-related topics, including artificial intelligence, the use of digital technology in public service delivery, and how technology can enhance democracy and accountability.
Ambassador Didier Chasot concluded his speech by commending the conference organizers for their innovative spirit and expressed hope that the ongoing discussions would address digital challenges and contribute to a brighter future for society and the planet.
Participants in the conference also shared their insights. Fatma Fungo, CEO of the Zanzibar Maisha Bora Foundation, expressed that Azaki Week focuses on technology, where artificial intelligence will aid civil society organizations in supporting the government's efforts to address societal challenges and provide solutions.
Fungo pointed out that embracing artificial intelligence is an investment in technology that can be harnessed to bring about meaningful societal development.
Aboubakar Ally, a representative of the United States-based company Apple Inc., and a Tanzanian national, mentioned that global technological changes are inevitable. He encouraged society to be prepared for these changes and highlighted the opportunities rather than job losses that technology brings.
Ally said, "I want to dispel fears about this new technology. The key is for people to be courageous, ready, allocate sufficient time, and use their intellect to ensure that technology does not leave anyone behind."
The conference aims to bridge the digital divide, ensuring technology benefits all and serves as a tool for societal progress.
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