Press Release

Global AI Summit on Africa names Inaugural Co-Chairs to Champion AI for Competitiveness and Inclusive Growth

Kigali, Rwanda, 26 March 2025

Kigali, Rwanda, 26 March 2025 — The Global AI Summit on Africa has unveiled its distinguished Co-Chairs for its inaugural event, set to take place on the 3rd to 4th of April in Kigali, Rwanda. This landmark gathering, hosted by the Rwanda Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the Ministry of ICT & Innovation, in collaboration with the World Economic Forum, will bring together over 1,000 leaders from 96 countries, representing government, business, academia, and civil society, to accelerate AI-driven innovation and explore its transformative potential for the continent.

The Co-Chairs leading and shaping these critical conversations are:

  • H.E. Lerato Mataboge, Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy of the Africa Union Commission
  • Strive Masiyiwa, Founder & Executive Chairman Econet Group & Cassava Technologies
  • Eric Schmidt, KBE, Former CEO & Chairman of Google, Executive Chairman and CEO of Relativity Space
  • Dr. James Manyika, SVP Google and Alphabet, President for Research, Labs, Tech & Society
  • Dr. Senait Fisseha, VP of Global Programs, Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation

Under the theme, “AI and Africa’s Demographic Dividend: Reimagining Economic Opportunities for Africa’s Workforce,” the Summit aims to mobilize investment, foster policy alignment, and amplify Africa’s leadership in shaping AI’s global trajectory. Discussions will centre on empowering Africa’s youthful workforce, unlocking new economic pathways, and bridging global AI divides.

H.E. Lerato Mataboge, Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy of the Africa Union Commission, emphasized Africa’s leadership role in shaping the global AI ecosystem, stating

"AI presents an opportunity to transform African economies, and successful implementation of the AU Continental AI Strategy will require a collaborative, multistakeholder approach. This summit will be a catalyst for forging partnerships that bring together governments, businesses, researchers, and entrepreneurs to ensure Africa leads in shaping AI’s future.”

Africa stands at an inflection point, with a distinct opportunity to pioneer AI innovation that is responsible, sustainable, and inclusive.

Jeremy Jurgens, Managing Director at the World Economic Forum, highlighted the Summit’s significance, stating:

“The Global AI Summit on Africa is a pivotal moment to accelerate AI-driven transformation across the continent. By bringing together leaders from around the world, we can harness AI’s potential to unlock new economic opportunities and shape a more sustainable future.”

The Summit will not only spotlight Africa’s unique contributions to AI development but also drive forward a vision of equitable technological progress and global collaboration. As AI reshapes economies worldwide, this gathering presents a timely opportunity to position Africa as a key player in the global AI ecosystem.

For media inquiries, interview requests, or further details, please contact: gaisafrica25@c4ir.rw

About the Global AI Summit on Africa

The Global AI Summit on Africa is a premier gathering dedicated to advancing AI innovation, investment, and policy across the continent. Bringing together entrepreneurs, researchers, investors, and policymakers, the summit aims to position Africa as a global leader in AI development and ethical deployment. Learn more about the Summit at: https://c4ir.rw/global-ai-summit-on-africa

About the Rwanda Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution

Part of the World Economic Forum’s C4IR Network, the Rwanda Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution is a partnership of the World Economic Forum and the Government of Rwanda— a hub for public-private cooperation, creating a platform to shape the development and deployment of emerging technologies for the benefit of society. Learn more about the Centre’s work at: https://c4ir.rw