President Paul Kagame, on Thursday, exhorted African nations to make bold steps in adopting artificial intelligence (AI) and to guarantee that the continent keeps pace with the technological revolution.

While addressing the inaugural Global AI Summit on Africa held at the Kigali Convention Center, Kagame said that it’s unfortunate that the rise of this new technology is being overshadowed by geopolitical competition.

“For now, technological development is concentrated in a few countries. Africa cannot afford to be left behind once again playing catchup. We have to adapt, cooperate, and compete because it is in our best interest to do so,” he stated.

Kagame issued a rallying cry to governments and private sectors to invest in modern infrastructure to support AI adoption, saying they should be ready “to go back to the drawing board and build a strong foundation for connectivity.”

The head of State noted that without reliable high-speed internet and a stable power supply, Africa would face challenges in deploying AI into its economies.

“There is still a lot of uncertainty surrounding artificial intelligence, especially regarding privacy and safety. But one thing is certain, technology is supposed to be a force for good, and we have a responsibility to use it accordingly.”

He further indicated that Rwanda has established several centres of excellence to equip our young people with the skills to perform these jobs.

Kagame lauded the African Union, Smart Africa, and ITU for championing the creation of the Africa AI Council.

According to PwC's Global Artificial Intelligence Study, AI could contribute up to $15.7 trillion to the global economy in 2030.

Togo’s President, Faure Gnassingbé, indicated that Africa should develop its own technology rather than relying on the others, emphasizing that these efforts should actively involve young people.

Crystal Rugege, the Managing Director of the Center for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, urged Africa to integrate artificial intelligence into their lives, with a particular workforce empowering the youth.

“Africa is uniquely positioned to shape the trajectory of AI, driven by a greatest asset, a young vibrant population. By 2035, Africa will have the world’s youngest and largest workforce, a demographic dividend that is poised to drive immense economic opportunity,” she said.

“In the room today, we have over 400 young AI enthusiasts, including students, engineers, and entrepreneurs, who are eager to harness the full potential of AI in Africa not just as consumers but as pioneers, building impactful solutions for their communities and for the world.”

President with distinguished leaders participated in the event

Photo: President Kagame poses with distinguished leaders who participated in the Global AI Summit on Africa, which is underway in Kigali for two days.