By Njeri Irungu,
24 March 2026,
Kigali, Rwanda.
East Africa is set to host a major regional conference on artificial intelligence, bringing together policymakers, researchers, and innovators to shape the region’s digital transformation agenda.
The 4th East African Community (EAC) Regional Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Conference will take place from March 30 to April 1, 2026, at the Kigali Convention Centre. The event is jointly organised by the East African Science and Technology Commission and the Inter-University Council for East Africa.
Held under the theme “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for a Resilient, Inclusive, and Innovative East Africa,” the conference comes at a critical moment as the region accelerates efforts to integrate emerging technologies into development strategies.
Rwanda’s Minister for ICT and Innovation, PEast Africa to Convene Landmark AI Conference in Kigali to Chart Region’s Digital Futureaula Ingabire, will officially open the conference, which is expected to draw high-level delegations including ministers, heads of institutions, development partners, and private sector leaders from across the eight EAC Partner States.
Speaking ahead of the event, Sylvance Okoth said the conference represents more than a routine gathering. “East Africa stands at a defining crossroads, and how we harness artificial intelligence in the coming years will determine the prosperity and resilience of our region for generations,” he noted.
The biennial STI Conference has become a key platform for advancing science-driven policy dialogue and regional collaboration. This year’s edition is the first to place artificial intelligence at its core, recognising its growing role in driving economic growth, innovation, and social transformation.
Idris Rai underscored the importance of academia in shaping the region’s AI future, noting that universities and research institutions must play a central role in building equitable and locally relevant solutions.
Over 680 delegates are expected to attend the three-day event, with additional participants joining virtually. The programme will feature plenary sessions, ministerial dialogues, research presentations, and innovation showcases, including a dedicated platform for youth and women entrepreneurs to present AI-driven solutions.
Key discussions will focus on the application of AI across critical sectors such as agriculture, health, education, climate resilience, and the digital economy, alongside emerging issues around governance, ethics, and regional cooperation.
A major highlight will be a ministerial dialogue aimed at strengthening policy coordination across member states, culminating in the anticipated adoption of the Kigali Declaration on AI for East Africa.
The conference will also host a range of East Africa to Convene Landmark AI Conference in Kigali to Chart Region’s Digital Futureartner-led events and exhibitions, providing a platform for collaboration among governments, academia, industry, and development organisations.
Outcomes from the conference are expected to inform regional strategies, strengthen institutional capacity, and accelerate the responsible adoption of artificial intelligence to support sustainable development across East Africa.
