Artificial Intelligence law at Congo
As of May 2025, the Republic of the Congo (also known as Congo-Brazzaville) does not have a comprehensive national law specifically governing Artificial Intelligence (AI). However, the country is making significant strides in integrating AI into its digital transformation agenda and establishing foundational frameworks for data protection and digital ethics.
🇨🇬 AI and Digital Transformation Initiatives
Vision Congo Digital 2025: This national strategy aims to promote e-citizenry and e-government, necessitating updates to the country's legal framework to address challenges related to privacy, data protection, and cybersecurity in the digital age. (UNESCO)
AI Training for Judicial Operators: In November 2023, UNESCO, in collaboration with the Centre Africain de Recherche en Intelligence Artificielle (CARIA) and the Smart Africa Digital Academy, conducted training sessions in Brazzaville. Eighty judicial actors participated, focusing on AI functionalities, ethical governance frameworks, and the intersection of cybersecurity and human rights. (UNESCO)
🛡️ Data Protection and Cybersecurity Framework
Law No. 29-2019 on the Protection of Personal Data: Enacted in 2019, this law aligns closely with the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). It mandates data controllers and processors to appoint data protection officers and conduct Data Protection Impact Assessments for high-risk processing activities. However, the Commission responsible for overseeing compliance has not yet been established. (DataGuidance)
Law No. 27-2020 on Cybercrime: Passed on June 5, 2020, this law addresses various aspects of cybercrime, providing a legal framework to combat digital threats. (Morrison Foerster)
🧠 AI Research and Development
African Research Centre for Artificial Intelligence (ARCAI): Established in Brazzaville with support from the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), ARCAI is the first AI research center in Africa. It aims to provide technology education, promote job creation, bridge the digital divide, and enhance inclusive economic growth. The center offers Master of Science programs in AI and Data Science and conducts research on the legal, ethical, economic, and societal implications of AI technologies. (UNECA, United Nations, UNECA)
Partnership with Presight AI: In March 2022, the Republic of the Congo signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Presight AI to develop a three-year Digital Transformation program. The program includes the implementation of advanced ICT infrastructure, a National Digital ID program, and digital healthcare services. (See the Future Today)
⚖️ Legal and Ethical Framework Development
National AI Strategy: The government is in the process of formulating a National Artificial Intelligence Strategy. This initiative involves establishing a legal and ethical framework to ensure responsible AI use, data protection, and fairness. The strategy includes the development of an implementation roadmap, funding mechanisms such as public-private partnerships, and innovation funds. (Aninver)
✅ Summary
While the Republic of the Congo does not yet have a dedicated national AI law, the country is actively laying the groundwork for responsible AI governance through strategic initiatives, foundational data protection laws, and international collaborations. The establishment of ARCAI and partnerships with organizations like Presight AI underscore the country's commitment to integrating AI into its digital transformation agenda. The ongoing development of a National AI Strategy aims to provide a comprehensive legal and ethical framework to guide AI deployment in the future.(UNECA)
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