From 30 March to 1 April 2026, Kigali became the hub of regional innovation as it hosted the 4th East African Community (EAC) Regional Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Conference.

The event brought together policymakers, researchers, industry leaders, and development partners to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can drive sustainable development across East Africa.

Held under the theme “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for a Resilient, Inclusive, and Innovative East Africa", the conference provided a strategic platform for dialogue and collaboration on the transformative potential of AI. Participants engaged in discussions focused on strengthening regional cooperation and aligning efforts to leverage AI for economic growth, social inclusion, and resilience.

A central objective of the conference was to address persistent gaps that hinder the effective adoption of AI in the region. These include limited technical capacity, underdeveloped digital and AI infrastructure, insufficient investment in AI research and innovation, and the absence of cohesive governance and regulatory frameworks. Stakeholders emphasized the need for coordinated regional action to ensure that AI development remains responsible, ethical, and people-centred.

One of the highlights of the conference was a panel discussion on “Ethics and Responsible AI in the East African Community.” During this session, Prof. Damien Hanyurwimfura, Director of the ACEIoT Centre, underscored several critical challenges facing the region.

He pointed out the misalignment between existing ethical guidelines and regulatory frameworks, which complicates the implementation of responsible AI systems. He also noted weak collaboration between researchers and industry, which limits the translation of research into practical, market-ready AI solutions.

Furthermore, Prof. Hanyurwimfura highlighted the issue of limited funding for research aimed at developing commercially viable AI products. He stressed that without adequate investment, innovation in AI will remain largely theoretical and fail to deliver tangible benefits to society.

Another key concern raised was the shortage of skilled professionals, particularly in advanced areas such as deep learning, which is essential for building robust AI systems.

The conference concluded with a renewed commitment from stakeholders to strengthen partnerships, invest in capacity building, and develop harmonized policies that will enable the region to fully harness the potential of AI.

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 a wide range of regional and global STI stakeholders.

The conference was officially opened by Rwanda’s Minister of ICT and Innovation, Hon. Paula Ingabire and attended by Minister of Foreign Affairs Hon Olivier Jean Patrick Nduhungirehe, State Minister of ICT and Innovation Mr Yves Iradukunsa and ICT Ministers from across the region, and senior stakeholders.