Experts highlight ethical AI and regional collaboration at East Africa STI conference in Kigali

By:  Kanto Kai Okanta

Stakeholders across government, industry, academia, and development institutions have underscored the importance of ethical governance, skills development, and regional collaboration in advancing artificial intelligence adoption in East Africa.

The discussions took place during the 4th East African Community (EAC) Regional Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Conference held at the Kigali Convention Centre in Rwanda. The conference was jointly organised by the East African Science and Technology Commission (EASTECO) and the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), in collaboration with regional and international partners.

Speaking during a plenary session on “Ethics and Responsible AI in the East African Community,” Malcolm Kijirah, Government Affairs Manager for East Africa at Microsoft, highlighted the need for balanced and forward-looking approaches to AI governance.

He noted that as artificial intelligence continues to reshape economies and societies, policymakers must address ethical risks while creating enabling environments for innovation. Discussions at the session focused on issues including regulatory frameworks, data governance, public awareness, and the development of digital skills required to support AI adoption.

Kijirah advocated for a modern interpretation of data sovereignty, emphasising that effective governance should be based on legal authority, accountability, and trust rather than restrictive data localisation requirements. He explained that enabling secure data flows across borders is essential for unlocking economic value while maintaining national interests.

He also identified skills development as a critical factor in driving AI adoption across the region, pointing to ongoing initiatives aimed at building digital and AI capabilities among young people and professionals in East Africa.

Participants at the conference further stressed the importance of a multistakeholder approach, bringing together governments, private sector players, academic institutions, and civil society to design inclusive and sustainable AI frameworks.

The conference highlighted East Africa’s growing momentum in embracing emerging technologies and reinforced the need for coordinated regional strategies to ensure that AI development supports resilience, inclusivity, and long-term economic growth.