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The Bahamas government says it is developing plans to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to help the country grow and modernize.
Parliamentary Secretary for Economic Affairs, Wayde Watson, spoke about this during the “AI: Opportunities for Growth” session at Diplomatic Week 2025, held at the Baha Mar Resort on October 21.
Mr. Watson said the government wants to enjoy the benefits of AI while also managing the risks. The aim is to make The Bahamas a smarter, more connected nation and to reduce the digital gap between rural and urban areas.
He outlined three main goals for introducing AI nationwide. First, AI should be inclusive so that everyone benefits and no one is left behind. The government plans to establish ethical rules for AI, focusing on transparency and accountability. This will be supported by the new Data Protection Bill 2025, which will update privacy laws and include rules on AI use.
The draft bill is based on Europe’s GDPR rules, which are seen as the global standard for protecting personal data. It will help ensure that anyone outside The Bahamas who misuses Bahamian data can be held responsible.
Another goal is stronger regional and international cooperation. The Bahamas wants to work with CARICOM members and other countries like Singapore and Estonia that are leading in digital innovation.
Finally, the government hopes to strengthen ties between the public sector, private businesses, and schools. It plans to train students and professionals in AI, aiming to help Bahamians gain some of the 170 million new jobs expected to come from AI worldwide.
The session was moderated by Ambassador at Large Gilbert Morris. Ambassadors from Romania and Spain also took part, offering to share expertise and cooperate with The Bahamas in developing AI for the wider region.
Source: Bahamas Information Service.
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