East African policymakers to convene in Kigali for AI-focused regional conference
According to the Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Department at the EAC Secretariat, the conference, which is jointly organised by the East African Science and Technology Commission (EASTECO) and the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), will focus on advancing the region’s economic transformation through artificial intelligence (AI).
Some of the students who are doing AI-driven courses interacting at the National ICT Hub in Nakawa recently. On the right are some of the members using the QR code to log into the AI-driven platform. (Credit: Moses Kigongo)
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The East African Community (EAC) will bring together policymakers, researchers, and innovators in Kigali, Rwanda, for the 4th Regional Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Conference, scheduled from 30th March to 1st April 2026 at the Kigali Convention Centre.
According to the Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Department at the EAC Secretariat, the conference, which is jointly organised by the East African Science and Technology Commission (EASTECO) and the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), will focus on advancing the region’s economic transformation through artificial intelligence (AI).
Held under the theme “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for a Resilient, Inclusive, and Innovative East Africa,” the gathering comes at a pivotal moment as Partner States seek to align on emerging technologies to drive sustainable development.
The event will be officially opened by Rwanda’s Minister for ICT and Innovation, Hon. Paula Ingabire, and is expected to attract high-level dignitaries, including representatives of Heads of State, Ministers responsible for ICT, EAC senior leadership, heads of EAC institutions, development partners, and private sector leaders.
Speaking ahead of the conference, EASTECO Executive Secretary Dr Sylvance Okoth described the meeting as a call to collective action, emphasising the importance of coordinated regional approaches in harnessing AI for long-term prosperity and resilience. IUCEA Acting Executive Secretary Prof. Idris Rai underscored the critical role of universities and research institutions in shaping an inclusive, evidence-based AI future.
As the region’s premier platform for science-driven dialogue and policy collaboration, the biennial STI Conference will feature plenary sessions, ministerial dialogues, research presentations, innovation exhibitions, and showcases for youth and women entrepreneurs.
More than 680 delegates are expected to attend in person, alongside additional participants joining virtually, reflecting growing regional commitment to leveraging AI as a catalyst for inclusive growth and innovation.