EAC Honors Young Innovators and Adopts AI Resolutions at Kigali Conference

The East African Community (EAC) has recognized young innovators for their technological contributions to regional challenges, awarding top winners $10,000 each and others $1,400. These awards were presented at the 4th EAC Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Conference held in Kigali, Rwanda.

Rwanda’s Minister of Information Technology, Communication, and Innovation, Paula Ingabire, highlighted that these innovations are addressing issues in education, agriculture, environmental protection, health, and transportation. She encouraged member states to continue supporting young innovators and to promote participation in initiatives, particularly those involving artificial intelligence (AI).

During the conference, participants adopted 15 resolutions aimed at strengthening AI adoption across the region. These resolutions focus on enhancing national AI policies, building AI skills, establishing a regional center of excellence for emerging technologies, creating a regional AI research fund, developing skilled human resources, and improving shared AI infrastructure and data management systems. Additional measures include creating a Regional Digital Leaders Forum, nurturing innovation talent, and promoting ethical AI use.

The three-day conference, held from March 30 to April 1, 2026, underscored East Africa’s commitment to innovation and technology as key drivers for sustainable development.