Rwanda ICT Minister urges regional unity to harness AI potential at EAC STI Conference
Date: 2026-03-30
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
Rwanda’s
Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire, has called on East African
countries to adopt a unified approach to artificial intelligence development in
order to maximize its economic and social benefits across the region.
Speaking
at the 4th East African Community Science, Technology and Innovation Conference
in Kigali, the minister highlighted the growing opportunities for AI to
transform key sectors, citing examples such as tools helping farmers reduce
harvest losses and digital platforms expanding access to financial services.
She
emphasized that unlocking the full potential of AI in East Africa will require
stronger regional collaboration, including pooling research capacity,
developing shared data infrastructure, and investing in local talent.
According
to the minister, these measures are critical to ensuring that the value created
by AI remains within the region and benefits its citizens. She stressed the
importance of data sovereignty, rights protection, and the development of AI
systems that reflect local values and priorities.
The
remarks come as policymakers and industry leaders across East Africa intensify
efforts to position the region as a competitive hub for innovation and
inclusive digital growth.
