Tag: Procurement

AIGovernmentInnovation

Albania Appoints AI as Minister in Groundbreaking Governance Experiment

Albania has appointed an AI system named Diella as a virtual minister overseeing public procurement. The unprecedented move aims to eliminate corruption in government contracting but raises critical questions about accountability and transparency in algorithmic governance.

Historic Appointment in Government Technology

Albania has become the first nation to appoint an artificial intelligence system to a ministerial position, according to reports from international media outlets. The AI system, named Diella, previously served as an e-government assistant helping citizens with digital paperwork before receiving its promotion to cabinet-level responsibility for public procurement. The Balkan country of 2.8 million people announced the unprecedented move last month, surprising many observers in the AI industry.

by Darren Holt
BusinessEconomy

Absa ESD Expo Sets New Records with R24-Million Business Opportunities for South African SMMEs

The 14th annual Absa Enterprise & Supplier Development Expo has concluded with unprecedented success, generating over R24 million in business opportunities for South African small businesses. The event attracted 476 SMMEs and 31 corporate procurement teams, marking the highest engagement levels in the expo’s 14-year history according to organizers.

Record-Breaking Business Connections

The 14th annual Absa Enterprise & Supplier Development Expo has reportedly set new records by generating over R24 million in business opportunities for South African small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs). According to reports from organizers, the event achieved its highest engagement levels in 14 years with 6,451 total interactions recorded during the two-day gathering in Johannesburg.

by Natalie Brooks