KIGALI: The Sultanate of Oman has taken a significant step towards strengthening international digital collaboration by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Republic of Rwanda on the sidelines of the Global Artificial Intelligence (AI) Summit held in Kigali, Rwanda.
The summit, themed 'Artificial Intelligence and Africa's Demographic Dividend: Reimagining Economic Opportunities for Africa's Workforce', brought together more than 1,000 participants from 95 countries, including global policymakers, researchers, investors and over 100 AI companies. It served as a platform to explore the latest innovations in artificial intelligence, promote investment opportunities and align strategic policies to enhance Africa’s AI capabilities.
The MoU, signed by Dr Ali bin Amer al Shaithani, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology for Communications and Information Technology, and Yves Iradokunda, Permanent Secretary of Rwanda’s Ministry of Communications, Information Technology and Innovation, outlines a framework for cooperation in key digital areas. These include the digitisation of government services, AI development, digital transformation, cybersecurity, and fostering innovation through private sector partnerships.
It further includes collaboration in research and development across emerging technologies such as blockchain, the Internet of Things (IoT), and AI, while also emphasising the development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), talent upskilling and data protection initiatives.
Oman's participation in the summit underscored its commitment to advancing its digital economy and creating global partnerships in ICT. The Omani delegation, led by Dr Al Shaithani, featured representatives from prominent tech companies including ITCHA Group, Omantel and Oman Data Park, who used the platform to present Oman's growing capabilities and potential as a hub for digital innovation.
On the sidelines of the summit, Dr Al Shaithani met with Paula Ingabire, Rwanda’s Minister of Communications, Information Technology and Innovation, where both parties discussed expanding bilateral cooperation in the ICT sector and shared insights on Rwanda’s progress in digital transformation.
The summit also marked the official launch of the Africa AI Council, aimed at steering the continent’s collective AI development strategies and fostering inclusive growth. This strategic engagement between Oman and Rwanda marks a milestone in digital diplomacy, positioning both nations at the forefront of the global push for innovation and sustainable digital transformation. - ONA
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