Mozambique is assessing how artificial intelligence can support its cultural and creative economy while protecting cultural identity, intellectual property and creators’ rights.
The issue was discussed on 14 August 2026 at the National and Inclusive Dialogue, “Culture: Identity, Rights and Economy,” held at the Mozambique-China Cultural Center in Maputo. Prof. Dr. Eng. Lourino Chemane, President of the National Institute of Information and Communication Technologies (INTIC), spoke at the event.
Chemane addressed challenges and opportunities for AI in Mozambique’s creative ecosystem, including ethical governance, algorithmic transparency and intellectual property protection in AI-generated content.
AI’s potential and risks
Chemane said AI could:
- support creativity and innovation
- widen access to cultural content
- improve translation and content recommendations
- help preserve Mozambique’s cultural heritage
He also noted that increased AI use raises concerns around copyright, intellectual property, cultural data, identity and transparency in algorithmic systems.
Policy alignment
The discussion aligns with Mozambique’s proposed National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (ENIA), which sets guidelines for ethical and responsible AI development and adoption. It also connects with the country’s Information Society Policy, Information Society Strategic Plan, and Science, Technology and Innovation Policy.
INTIC said collaboration among government, creators, academia, the private sector and communities will be important to ensure AI delivers meaningful benefits for Mozambique’s cultural and creative sectors.
Chemane also highlighted the role of the National Artificial Intelligence Observatory, which is expected to support transparency, build trust and help measure the impact of AI development and deployment in Mozambique.
The dialogue reinforced the importance of placing Mozambican identity and culture at the centre of AI development, with the government seeking to build an inclusive and sovereign digital future while using emerging technologies to support sustainable development and protect creators’ rights.
