Rwanda and Qatar are exploring ways to strengthen cooperation in information and communication technology (ICT), artificial intelligence (AI), skills development and investment, as the two countries move to translate an existing partnership agreement into practical initiatives.
The discussions took place when Rwanda’s Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire, received Qatar’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Mansour Ali Fahad Al-Shahwani Al-Hajri. The meeting focused on the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two countries to promote cooperation in ICT and innovation.
The two sides discussed opportunities to turn the agreement into concrete programmes capable of supporting Rwanda’s digital transformation while creating new avenues for collaboration with Qatar.
“Rwanda and Qatar are committed to strengthening cooperation in technology and innovation, with a focus on creating practical opportunities that can deliver value to both countries,” the discussions highlighted.
A key area of focus was artificial intelligence, which is increasingly shaping economies and public services globally. Rwanda has positioned digital technologies and emerging innovations as important drivers of economic transformation, while cooperation with international partners is expected to help expand access to expertise, technologies and investment.
The officials also examined cooperation in the broader telecommunications sector, including opportunities to enhance connectivity and support the development of a stronger digital ecosystem.
Skills development and capacity building featured prominently in the discussions, reflecting the need to equip young people and technology professionals with skills required by a rapidly changing digital economy. Closer collaboration could provide opportunities for knowledge exchange, training and the development of specialised expertise in areas such as AI and other emerging technologies.
Investment was another important component of the meeting, with the two sides looking at opportunities for greater private-sector engagement and technology-driven investment. Such partnerships could help accelerate the growth of innovative businesses and create new opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship.
Beyond the implementation of the ICT and innovation MoU, Rwanda and Qatar also explored other areas where bilateral cooperation could be expanded, signalling continued efforts to deepen relations between the two countries.
The engagement comes as Rwanda continues to pursue its ambition of becoming a knowledge- and technology-driven economy, while Qatar is also investing heavily in digital transformation, innovation and emerging technologies. The growing cooperation between the two countries could therefore provide a platform for exchanging expertise, attracting investment and developing joint initiatives in the digital sector.
