East Africa to Host Landmark AI Conference in Kigali


kasuku David for taifaleo news 
 East Africa is set to convene a landmark gathering of ministers, policymakers, researchers, innovators, and development partners at the 4th East African Community (EAC) Regional Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Conference, taking place from March 30 to April 1, 2026, at the Kigali Convention Centre.

Organized by the East African Science and Technology Commission (EASTECO) in partnership with the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), the conference is themed “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for a Resilient, Inclusive, and Innovative East Africa.” It marks the first STI edition to place Artificial Intelligence at its core, recognizing its role as a driver of sustainable growth and regional competitiveness.

The event will be officially opened by Rwanda’s Minister for ICT and Innovation, Hon. Paula Ingabire, alongside the EAC Secretary General and Chair of the EAC Council of Ministers. Over 680 delegates are expected to participate in plenary sessions, ministerial dialogues, thematic paper presentations, innovation exhibitions, and youth and women entrepreneurship showcases.

A highlight of the conference is the Youth and Women Innovation Challenge, where 16 entrepreneurs from all EAC Partner States will pitch AI-driven solutions aimed at improving local industries and services.

Experts from institutions including Carnegie Mellon University Africa, AUDA-NEPAD, Microsoft, and UNESCO will address AI applications across agriculture, health, education, climate resilience, and digital economies, while fostering policy coordination, talent development, and regional collaboration.

The conference is expected to culminate in the Kigali Declaration on AI for East Africa, providing a roadmap for responsible, inclusive, and impactful adoption of AI across the region.

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