Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva, who is attending the United Nations General Assembly in New York, has highlighted the role of technology in Rwanda’s development and the opportunities that artificial intelligence (AI) could create for Africa.
Speaking at the high-level Global Africa Business Initiative event, “Unstoppable Africa 2026,” the Prime Minister discussed Rwanda’s progress in technology and the need for African countries to expand their use and development of emerging technologies.
He said AI presents significant opportunities, but noted that technology use across Africa has not yet reached a satisfactory level. He called for continued investment in technological infrastructure to address challenges faced by citizens.
Rwanda Expands Digital Infrastructure
Prime Minister Nsengiyumva said Rwanda is on the right path in using technology to provide solutions for citizens.
“Over the past years, Rwanda has taken concrete decisions and invested in technological infrastructure. We now have an extensive fibre-optic network, while 4G technology reaches all citizens, and we have started testing 5G in order to increase our technological capacity to a higher level.”
He continued, “Building on this infrastructure, we have integrated more than 250 government services into digital platforms, and we have established a national electronic payment platform, making Rwanda a country that prioritizes technology.”
He added that Rwanda has also worked to create an environment that supports innovation while protecting citizens’ rights and promoting a secure and trusted digital economy.
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Rwanda Advances Its AI Policy
Rwanda approved its National Artificial Intelligence Policy in April 2023. The policy provides a framework for developing infrastructure, skills, data systems and governance mechanisms to support responsible AI adoption.
The Prime Minister said, “We have strong legislation that protects personal data, supported by a specialized authority responsible for protecting personal data and ensuring its implementation.”
The National AI Policy aims to position Rwanda as a global centre for AI research and innovation, promote responsible AI adoption, improve public services and strengthen the country’s role in Africa’s technology ecosystem.
National AI Agency Established
In June 2026, the Cabinet approved the establishment of the National Artificial Intelligence Agency to accelerate AI development, innovation, adoption, investment and governance in Rwanda.
The agency is intended to coordinate AI-related activities, support research and skills development, promote investment and help advance the use of AI across different sectors.
Rwanda has also identified areas including healthcare, education, justice, agriculture and business where AI can support service delivery and development. The government has previously highlighted AI’s potential to improve productivity, economic growth and public and private services while addressing associated risks.
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AI Expected to Support Rwanda’s Development
The National AI Policy states that AI has the potential to improve livelihoods, contribute to Rwanda’s development objectives and support sustainable development, while also recognising the need to manage associated risks through ethical principles and appropriate safeguards.
Rwanda’s AI strategy therefore combines technological infrastructure, skills development, governance and responsible adoption. The government has also emphasised the importance of ensuring that AI responds to local needs and contributes to areas such as healthcare, education, agriculture and public service delivery.
The Prime Minister’s remarks in New York come as Rwanda continues to position AI as part of its broader digital transformation agenda, while seeking greater African participation in the development and deployment of emerging technologies.
