On 20 April 2023, the Cabinet of Rwanda approved the National AI Policy, a significant step towards harnessing the potential of AI for the country’s progress. Rwanda is the first country in Africa to design such an AI policy. Developed by the Ministry of ICT and Innovation, in collaboration with the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA), GIZ FAIR Forward, the Centre for the 4th Industrial Revolution Rwanda (C4IR), and The Future Society (TFS), this policy sets out Rwanda’s vision for integrating AI across various sectors of its economy. With a strong emphasis on responsible and ethical use, the policy aims to position Rwanda as a global leader in AI innovation while fostering sustainable economic growth and social development.
Policy objectives and focus areas:
The Rwandan National AI Policy outlines a comprehensive plan to leverage AI’s transformative potential in key sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, public services, education, finance, and smart cities. By applying AI solutions strategically, the government aims to improve efficiency, accessibility, and effectiveness in these sectors. The policy also emphasises the importance of nurturing local AI talent, promoting research and innovation, and ensuring the responsible use of AI technologies.
Policy Priority Areas:
The National AI Policy in Rwanda is built upon six key policy priority areas designed to guide the ethical and responsible development and adoption of AI:
- 21st Century Skills & High AI Literacy: Fostering a skilled workforce capable of harnessing AI’s potential through education and training initiatives.
- Reliable infrastructure and computer capacity: Developing robust computing infrastructure and capacity to support AI-driven solutions effectively.
- Robust data strategy: Establishing a comprehensive framework for data collection, management, and utilisation to enable AI innovation.
- Trustworthy AI adoption in the public sector: Promoting the responsible deployment of AI technologies in government services and operations.
- Widely beneficial AI adoption in the private sector: Encouraging the private sector to leverage AI for sustainable growth, innovation, and competitiveness.
- Practical ethical guidelines: Ensuring the ethical use of AI technologies through the development and implementation of clear guidelines and frameworks.
In conclusion, Rwanda’s National AI Policy represents a significant commitment to leveraging AI for the country’s advancement. With a strong focus on responsible and ethical AI use, the policy aims to position Rwanda as an AI innovation hub while promoting sustainable economic growth and social development.
Access Partnership closely monitors the regulatory and policy development in the tech and digital space and has established the AI Lab. Access Partnership’s AI Policy Lab provides a comprehensive overview of global AI legislation and how to respond strategically.
For more information, please contact: Jan Magoro at [email protected].
