The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) has initiated moves to develop a regional artificial intelligence (AI) strategy and digital inclusion strategy in Kigali, Rwanda.
The initiative seeks to bridge digital divides, strengthen digital public infrastructure, and build institutional capacity across participating member states.
The four-day consultative engagement, supported by the World Bank under the Inclusive digitalisation in Eastern and Southern Africa Programme, brings together senior government officials, regulatory authorities, the private sector, academia, civil society, and development partners to shape landmark frameworks driving regional digital transformation.
Once in place, the organisation said the two documents are set to shape the future digital landscape of Eastern and Southern Africa.
“These consultations are part of an inclusive and evidence-based process designed to ensure that the resulting regional frameworks reflect the priorities and realities of our member states,” said Leonard Chitundu, telecommunications officer at the COMESA Secretariat, who highlighted the critical need for a harmonised approach to digital transformation across the region.
Esther Kunda, director-general in charge of innovation and emerging technologies in the Rwandan Ministry of ICT and Innovation, added: “We meet at a defining moment as artificial intelligence continues to reshape economies, public services, and societies.”
She emphasised that while AI and emerging technologies are reshaping global economies, their benefits must be universally accessible.
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