CRASA Legal and Policy Committee meeting advances regional data governance and AI regulation in SADC

The Communications Regulators Association of Southern Africa (CRASA) has convened its Legal and Policy Committee (LPC) meeting in Botswana, bringing together representatives from across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. Delegates from Botswana, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Eswatini, Lesotho, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe gathered to discuss critical issues shaping the future of data governance, artificial intelligence (AI) regulation, and regional harmonization of laws. 

The meeting, held at the CRASA Head Office in Botswana, highlighted the growing importance of collaboration and standardization in addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by rapid technological advancements. 

The agenda for the LPC meeting covered a wide range of topics, reflecting the diverse regulatory landscape of the SADC region.

In one of the sub-group sessions, delegates were tasked with outlining a framework for CRASA to establish itself as the regional authority on data governance and protection.

The CRASA LPC meeting marks a significant step forward in the region’s journey toward a harmonized digital future. By addressing critical issues such as data protection and AI governance, the meeting laid the groundwork for a more cohesive and forward-looking regulatory environment. 

The proposed framework for regional data governance and protection reflects a shared commitment to creating a secure, inclusive, and innovative digital ecosystem. As SADC countries continue to embrace digital transformation, initiatives like this will be crucial in ensuring that the benefits of technology are realized across the region. 

By: Nana Appiah Acquaye