The recently concluded inaugural Global AI Summit on Africa gathered delegates from around the world in Kigali, Rwanda for a two-day event to discuss how artificial intelligence (AI) can be harnessed to create inclusive economic opportunities, foster innovation, and enhance the skills of Africa’s workforce.
The Ugandan delegation was led by the State Minister for ICT, Hon. Joyce Ssebugwawo, and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Aminah Zawedde who outlined the nation’s ambitious yet balanced approach to harnessing AI for transformative growth.
Hon. Ssebugwawo underscored AI’s potential to revolutionize sectors such as healthcare, education, transportation, and finance, calling it a tool that “drives efficiency and unlocks new possibilities.” She highlighted advancements like AI-enabled medical research and assistive technologies for persons with disabilities as examples of its life-changing impact.
However, the she cautioned that “with great power comes great responsibility,” urging governments to craft policies that foster innovation while safeguarding social equity. “Issues such as privacy breaches, and ethical dilemmas are real and pressing,” she said, emphasizing the need for clear regulatory frameworks.
To position Uganda at the forefront of AI adoption, Hon. Ssebugwawo outlined key strategies. First, the government plans to boost homegrown AI solutions by funding research and offering incentives to startups, helping local talent turn ideas into real-world applications. This could spark job creation and economic growth while addressing challenges unique to Uganda.
Second, partnerships between the public sector, private companies, and universities will be encouraged to pool resources and expertise, accelerating the development of AI tools that benefit sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and education.
Finally, recognizing the risks of unchecked technology, the strategy emphasizes ethical guidelines developed through inclusive dialogue with communities, businesses, and civil society to ensure AI systems are fair, transparent, and environmentally sustainable.
By combining investment, collaboration, and accountability, Uganda aims to harness AI’s potential responsibly. Grants for startups could nurture a thriving tech ecosystem, while partnerships ensure innovations reach those who need them most—like farmers using AI for crop predictions or clinics improving diagnostics. Crucially, the focus on ethics addresses concerns about bias and environmental impact, building public trust. This balanced approach not only positions Uganda to compete globally in emerging technologies but also ensures AI solutions align with local values and long-term societal well-being, setting a model for other developing nations to follow.
“By creating an environment where innovation thrives, we ensure Uganda remains competitive globally,” she asserted.
Dr. Aminah Zawedde shifted focus to Uganda’s foundational investments in connectivity and digital literacy, critical for AI adoption. With support from the World Bank and development partners, she noted that Uganda aims to achieve 70% national broadband coverage by 2025, alongside constructing schools and equipping them with computer labs.
“Without infrastructure, you cannot stand,” Dr. Zawedde stated, detailing initiatives like the Rural Access Fund to establish labs and train teachers and students in basic digital skills.
“Before AI-enabled capabilities, we must first ensure citizens can even turn on a device,” she remarked, highlighting ongoing training programs for educators, students, and government officials.
Aligning with President Museveni’s digitization agenda, Dr. Zawedde confirmed plans for a National AI Policy
The government’s stance on AI reflects a dual focus:
- Domestic Preparedness: Prioritizing infrastructure, digital literacy, and ethical governance.
- Regional Collaboration: Exploring harmonized strategies with African nations to avoid fragmented policies.
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Dr. Zawedde also called for an urgent need for Africa to collaborate to ensure that AI tools and solutions genuinely serve African citizens from farmers and healthcare workers to educators and entrepreneurs.
“Africa has the potential not only to adopt AI but to shape it. By aligning our policies, harnessing our talent, and investing in research and innovation, we can build AI ecosystems that are truly made for and by Africa,” she stated.
As Uganda strides toward an AI-driven future, its leaders agree on one principle: Technology must serve all citizens. The nation is laying groundwork to ensure AI becomes a force for inclusion, not exclusion.
