Investigating the Role of Stakeholder Engagement in Artificial Intelligence Governance and Policy Making: A Case Study of Zimbabwe.

Abstract

Stakeholder engagement is a crucial aspect of effective governance and policy-making in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). In Zimbabwe, the role of stakeholder engagement in the development and implementation of AI governance and policies has not been extensively studied. This research aims to fill this gap by using Actor-Network Theory (ANT) to explore the network of actors involved in AI governance and policies in Zimbabwe and how their interactions and relationships influence the outcomes. A case study approach was used, incorporating qualitative methods, including interviews and literature review. This research identified key stakeholders, including chief executive officers from industry and the public sector, civil society organisations, ICT experts, and users, by examining their roles and relationships within the network. By applying ANT, this study uncovered the power dynamics and interests of these actors and how they shape the development and implementation of AI governance and policy-making in Zimbabwe. The findings of this research have implications for other countries and regions seeking to develop and implement AI governance and policies. It also contributes to the growing body of research on stakeholder engagement in the field of AI governance.