“I’m thrilled to have you all here today as we celebrate the innovators, entrepreneurs, and problem-solvers of our society. Over the past three days, we’ve witnessed young people daring to dream, coming together to shape the future they deserve, empowered by the skills they bring.” ~ Paula Ingabire (Minister of ICT & Innovation)

The Government of Rwanda, led by the Ministry of ICT and Innovation, is on a mission to transform the country into a regional technology hub. Embracing the digital age, Rwanda is leveraging technology to drive economic growth, enhance public services, and ensure that the benefits of innovation reach every citizen. This ambitious vision builds on Rwanda’s history of using emerging technologies to address societal challenges and fuel innovation across multiple sectors.

Central to this vision is Rwanda’s commitment to responsible and inclusive artificial intelligence (AI). Guided by its national AI policy, the government aims to become a global leader in AI that is ethically grounded and equitable. To support this, Rwanda is creating a secure, stable environment where digital transformation can thrive, with government policy providing a crucial framework for innovation. Recognizing the importance of collaboration, Rwanda actively engages in regional and international discussions to develop forward-thinking approaches for AI regulation, ensuring the country’s technological advancement aligns with global standards.

The Ministry of ICT and Innovation, tasked with driving this digital transformation, prioritizes economic growth and poverty reduction through comprehensive technology policies. By fostering innovation, the Ministry not only empowers citizens but also catalyzes sustainable economic growth. Minister of ICT and Innovation Paula Ingabire plays a pivotal role in these efforts. A seasoned leader, she previously headed the ICT Business Development Department at the Rwanda Development Board and led the Kigali Innovation City Project. Minister Ingabire also coordinated the Smart Africa initiative, aiming to use broadband infrastructure to propel Africa’s economic and social development. Her impressive academic background includes a graduate degree from MIT’s School of Engineering & Sloan School of Management and a BS in Computer Engineering and Information Technology from Kigali Institute of Science and Technology.

Speaking at the Hanga Pitchfest, a startup pitching competition jointly organized by the Ministry of ICT and Innovation, the Rwanda Development Board, and UNDP Rwanda, Minister Ingabire inspired young innovators. “Great innovations are born out of unlimited determination,” she said, encouraging the country’s next generation of tech leaders, entrepreneurs, and problem-solvers to drive forward Rwanda’s digital vision.

With robust policies, international partnerships, and a supportive ecosystem for startups, Rwanda is setting a precedent in Africa as it steadily advances toward its goal of becoming a leading technology hub.