Rwanda Approves National Artificial Intelligence Agency to Accelerate Innovation

KIGALI, Rwanda – June 8, 2026 – Rwanda has taken another major step toward becoming a leading technology hub in Africa after the Cabinet, chaired by President Paul Kagame, approved the establishment of a National Artificial Intelligence Agency.

The decision was announced following a Cabinet meeting held at Village Urugwiro and chaired by President Paul Kagame on this Monday. The new agency is expected to accelerate the development of artificial intelligence, strengthen innovation, improve digital governance, and attract technology investment as Rwanda continues its digital transformation agenda.

According to the Cabinet resolutions, the National Artificial Intelligence Agency will support the growth of AI-driven solutions across key sectors, encourage research and innovation, and help implement policies that promote the responsible use of emerging technologies. The move is also aimed at enhancing Rwanda’s competitiveness in the global digital economy.

The approval of the agency was one of several important decisions made during the meeting. Cabinet also endorsed the Government’s priorities for the 2026/27 fiscal year, focusing on boosting exports, creating jobs, improving citizens’ welfare, and increasing economic resilience. Ministers further reviewed Rwanda’s preparedness against the Ebola outbreak reported in neighboring Uganda and reaffirmed measures to prevent the disease from entering the country.

In addition, Cabinet approved several international agreements, including cooperation frameworks on climate resilience, health services, transportation, and diplomatic relations. Rwanda also joined the Africa Risk Capacity (ARC) Agency, a continental institution that helps African countries manage climate-related risks and disasters.

The meeting further approved key leadership appointments, including Florien Habiyaremye Rurihose as Director General of the newly established National Artificial Intelligence Agency.

This creation of the National Artificial Intelligence Agency highlights Rwanda’s commitment to embracing advanced technologies and positioning itself as a regional leader in artificial intelligence, digital innovation, and knowledge-based economic development.