Kigali AI Summit to Drive Regional Policy and Innovation Agenda in East Africa

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East Africa is preparing to take a major step in shaping its digital future, with leaders and experts set to converge in Kigali for a high-level regional conference focused on artificial intelligence and innovation.

The 4th East African Community Regional Science, Technology and Innovation Conference, organised by the East African Science and Technology Commission and the Inter-University Council for East Africa, will run from March 30 to April 1 at the Kigali Convention Centre.

The gathering is expected to bring together over 680 participants, including ministers in charge of ICT and innovation, researchers, private sector leaders, and development partners from across the East African Community. 

The conference comes at a time when countries in the region are increasingly looking to artificial intelligence as a tool to accelerate economic growth and improve service delivery.

Opening the event will be Rwanda’s ICT and Innovation Minister, Paula Ingabire, alongside senior regional officials and institutional heads. Organisers say the forum will focus on turning AI potential into practical solutions that address regional challenges.

“This is a defining moment for East Africa to collectively determine how artificial intelligence can support sustainable development and resilience,” said Sylvance Okoth.

The conference will feature a packed programme, including ministerial discussions, research presentations, innovation showcases, and exhibitions. 

A special focus will be placed on youth and women-led enterprises, with entrepreneurs given a platform to present AI-driven solutions to policymakers and investors.

Key discussions will explore how AI can transform sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, education, climate management, and the digital economy. Participants will also examine policy and governance issues, including ethical use of AI and the need for regional cooperation.

According to Idris Rai, higher learning institutions will play a crucial role in building the skills and research capacity needed to support the region’s AI ambitions.

A major outcome of the conference is expected to be a joint policy position aimed at aligning regional priorities and strengthening collaboration among partner states. The resolutions will guide future investments, innovation strategies, and institutional reforms across East Africa.

The summit is also set to spotlight gaps in infrastructure, skills, and research, while encouraging stronger partnerships between governments, academia, and the private sector.

As the region seeks to position itself competitively in the global technology landscape, the Kigali conference is expected to lay the groundwork for a more coordinated and inclusive approach to artificial intelligence development.

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