Rwanda calls for Africa to lead in AI development at Africa Forward Summit
Date: 2026-05-12
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
Rwanda’s
Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire, has called for Africa to play a
leading role in the development and governance of artificial intelligence,
stressing that the continent must become a co-designer of AI technologies
rather than remain a passive consumer.
Speaking
during the AI and Digital Transformation Roundtable at the Africa Forward
Summit 2026 in Nairobi, the minister said Africa’s digital future should be
anchored on three key pillars: infrastructure, skills development, and
governance.
She
noted that Africa’s youthful population and rapidly expanding digital economy
present significant opportunities for the continent to shape the future of
emerging technologies. According to the minister, Africa’s digital economy is
projected to exceed $180 billion this year, underscoring the growing importance
of strategic investments in digital transformation.
Ms.
Ingabire emphasized the need for African countries to strengthen digital
infrastructure, invest in talent development, and establish effective
governance frameworks that support responsible and inclusive AI adoption.
The
discussions formed part of broader engagements at the summit focused on
technology, innovation, digital transformation, and partnerships aimed at
accelerating Africa’s economic growth and competitiveness in the global digital
economy.
