The Council of Ministers approved Decree No. 14/2026, of April 17, which creates the National Commission for Artificial Intelligence (“CNIA”), a body for consultation and technical advice to the Government on matters related to artificial intelligence (“AI”), technological innovation, information security and scientific development.
The creation of CNIA represents a significant step in defining the institutional and regulatory framework for AI in Mozambique, in a context where governments and regulators have been strengthening governance mechanisms, ethical oversight, and the promotion of technological innovation.
CNIA Objectives
According to the Decree, the CNIA’s main objective is to ensure:
- the adoption and dissemination of best practices for the responsible and ethical use of AI;
- the development of the appropriate regulatory framework;
- the promotion of scientific research, education and technological innovation; and
- strengthening cybersecurity through the use of AI.
Key Competencies
Among the responsibilities assigned to CNIA, the following stand out:
- issuing opinions on policies, strategies and legislative instruments related to AI;
- the assessment of ethical, legal, and security issues associated with the use of AI;
- promoting investment and strategic partnerships in the sector;
- monitoring initiatives and recommendations from the African Union, UNESCO, the United Nations, and other international organizations;
- providing advice on financing strategic AI programs and projects; and
- promoting studies on the economic, technological, and social impact of AI in Mozambique.
The Decree also provides for the semi-annual publication of reports, opinions, and recommendations on a publicly accessible digital platform, reinforcing principles of transparency and social participation.
Structure and Composition
The CNIA will be chaired by the Minister responsible for Information and Communication Technologies, with the Ministers of National Defence and Education serving as Vice-Presidents.
The Commission comprises representatives from various public sectors, regulatory bodies, academia, civil society and the private sector, including the Supreme Court, the Public Prosecutor’s Office and regulatory authorities linked to ICT, communications, the financial sector and scientific research.
The Executive Secretariat of the CNIA will be ensured by the Regulatory Authority for Information and Communication Technologies, which is the National Institute of Information and Communication Technologies (“INTIC”).
Conclusion
The creation of CNIA represents a significant step in defining the future institutional and regulatory framework for artificial intelligence in Mozambique, and could have significant impacts on sectors such as telecommunications and technology, banking and financial services, mining and energy, health, public administration, data protection and cybersecurity.
In this context, companies that develop, use, or integrate AI solutions should closely monitor regulatory and institutional developments in this area, particularly with regard to ethical requirements, technology governance, compliance, and information security.
It is also important to highlight that the public consultation process for the Proposal of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy of Mozambique, promoted by INTIC, is currently underway and will continue until June 4, 2026.
This initiative demonstrates the intention of the Mozambican authorities to adopt a progressive, participatory, and structured approach in defining the national artificial intelligence policy, representing a significant opportunity for economic operators, academic institutions, regulated entities, and other stakeholders to actively contribute to building the future strategic and regulatory framework for AI in Mozambique.
For further information and updates please contact JLA Advogados, the LEX Africa member in Mozambique, on maputo@jlaadvogados.com or visit https://www.jlaadvogados.com.
