Several Members of Parliament (MPS) have demanded the establishment of laws to control the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the country.
Artificial Intelligence tools refer to software applications that employ algorithms based on artificial intelligence to carry out specific tasks and address various challenges.
During discussions held on the floor of Parliament on Wednesday, some legislators emphasized the substantial benefits offered by AI technologies, however, also stressed the need for regulation to ensure they are used in a manner that aligns with appropriate objectives.
“If we do not act now the future will be bleak for the future of our country. Probably Mr. Speaker, we should consider establishing an artificial intelligence council,” MP for Tamale South, Haruna Iddrisu, said.
MP for Ofoase Ayirebi, Kojo Oppong-Nkrumah who doubles as the Information Minister added that “those who worked on AI are beginning to worry about the potential.”
“So it is opportune time for us to consider what kind of architecture, legal or regulatory to limit the most dangerous parts of AI,” he added.
Geoffrey Hinton, who is regarded as the godfather of AI after quitting Google expressed concerns over the growth of artificial intelligence in all sectors of an economy.
“I think that it’s conceivable that this kind of advanced intelligence could just take over from us,” the renowned British-Canadian computer scientist told As It Happens host Nil Köksal.
“It would mean the end of people,” he added.
AI tools find applications across numerous industries such as healthcare, finance, marketing, and education. They serve purposes like task automation, data analysis, and enhanced decision-making capabilities.