[Artificial Intelligence] Mauritius Telecom and the Government Pave the Way

The African Leadership College of Higher Education (ALCHE) held a roundtable on Friday focused on the role of artificial intelligence in the digital development of Mauritius and the African continent. This event, part of the celebrations for the college's tenth anniversary, brought together key players from Mauritius's technology ecosystem.

Dr. Avinash Ramtohul, Minister of Information Technology, Communication, and Innovation, Veemal Gungadin, CEO of Mauritius Telecom, and Diya Nababsing-Jetshan, head of technology and digital transformation at IBL Group, participated in this inaugural discussion, which is part of a series of meetings aimed at business leaders and technology innovators.

During the discussions, the three panelists analyzed the potential of AI to drive innovation, enhance competitiveness, and support sustainable development in Africa. Minister Ramtohul outlined the key points of the Digital Transformation Blueprint 2025-2029, which defines the country's roadmap for building an inclusive and sustainable digital economy.

"This strategic plan emphasizes artificial intelligence, data governance, cybersecurity, and innovation for the benefit of citizens," said the minister. He also mentioned the AI Strategy, currently being developed, which aims to make AI a tool for society, enhance corporate competitiveness, and improve public services.

This approach relies on a PPPP (Public, Private, People Partnership) model intended to mobilize all stakeholders to build a more connected and competitive Mauritius.

For his part, Veemal Gungadin highlighted the strategic importance of artificial intelligence for the future of Mauritius and Africa. "Artificial intelligence is increasingly emerging as a major catalyst for innovation and development," he stated, adding that Mauritius Telecom has incorporated this technology into its growth strategy.

The CEO of the national operator expressed confidence that the continent's future depends on the intelligent integration of AI into economic and social ecosystems.

This meeting illustrates the willingness of public and private stakeholders to collaborate in the face of the challenges posed by artificial intelligence. As this technology transforms all sectors of society, such initiatives help inform decisions, anticipate challenges, and prepare the continent for significant upcoming transformations.

ALCHE plans to hold more discussions of this nature as part of its celebrations to continue the dialogue on Africa's technological development.