East African Community Unveils Regional Framework to Accelerate Artificial Intelligence Development

Source Domain: techafricanews.com

The declaration recognizes Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies as critical drivers of economic transformation, regional integration, and sustainable development across East Africa.

At the 4th East African Community (EAC) Regional Science, Technology and Innovation Conference held in Kigali, Rwanda on 1 April 2026, Ministers responsible for Science, Technology and Innovation, ICT, Education, and EAC Affairs adopted a landmark declaration on Artificial Intelligence aimed at accelerating regional digital transformation.

The declaration recognizes Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies as critical drivers of economic transformation, regional integration, and sustainable development across East Africa. It also acknowledges the leadership of the EAC Secretariat and its institutions in advancing science, technology, and innovation, alongside support from partners including the Government of Rwanda, the Federal Republic of Germany, AUDA-NEPAD, the African Union Commission, UNESCO, NCST, and EAC Partner States.

The ministers reaffirmed alignment with key regional frameworks, including the EAC Vision 2050, the EAC Digital Transformation Strategy, and the EAC Artificial Intelligence Strategy. Deliberations at the conference were guided by the theme “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for a Resilient, Inclusive, and Innovative East Africa,” with emphasis on strengthening regional cooperation and coordinated AI development.

A central outcome of the declaration is support for the development of national AI policies and strategies aligned with the regional AI framework. Member states also agreed to strengthen the proposed EAC Artificial Intelligence Alliance to advance skills development, research, and innovation across the region through a coordinated network.

The declaration further calls for the establishment of an EAC…

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