Artificial Intelligence law at South Sudan
As of May 2025, South Sudan does not have dedicated legislation governing Artificial Intelligence (AI). The country relies on general laws, such as data protection regulations, to partially oversee AI applications. This approach is common among several East and Southern African nations, with only Mauritius having sector-specific AI laws. (ITEdgeNews, Africa AI News)
A 2024 report by Paradigm Initiative, supported by four law firms via the Thomson Reuters Foundation’s TrustLaw, highlights significant gaps in AI governance across Kenya, Mauritius, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. The report emphasizes the need for urgent legislative review to ensure ethical and human-rights-centred AI frameworks. (Africa AI News)
In South Sudan, AI adoption is gaining momentum in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and telecommunications. However, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, limited skilled labor, data limitations, and governance issues hinder the effective implementation of AI technologies. Addressing these challenges requires investments in infrastructure, promotion of digital literacy, development of regulatory frameworks, and support for indigenous AI research and innovation. (Africa AI News, SSRN)
To ensure responsible and inclusive AI development, it is crucial for South Sudan to establish comprehensive AI policies that align with ethical standards and human rights considerations. Engaging stakeholders in policymaking and benchmarking AI laws against international guidelines, such as UNESCO’s AI ethics guidelines, can further strengthen AI governance in the country. (Africa AI News)
0 comments