The government is set to regulate artificial intelligence (AI) within its legal framework as it seeks to update the ICT law to keep pace with emerging technologies.
The revision of the 2016 ICT law aims to introduce clear guidelines for AI use, accountability, and ethics while ensuring data security and promoting innovation.
"The current law has struggled to keep pace with technological advancements, and areas such as AI, cybersecurity, digital trade, fintech, and blockchain were not fully covered,” said Fiacre Mushimire Niyigena, the General Director for Future Planning at MINICT.
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The revised ICT law will establish a comprehensive framework for AI governance, incorporating ethical guidelines, transparency requirements, and accountability mechanisms.
"It will support fair competition, consumer protection, and regulate fintech and e-commerce. Additionally, enhancements to e-Government services and updates to online content regulations will be included,” Mushimire noted.
The reform will also redefine the roles of key ICT regulatory institutions, including the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA), Rwanda Information Society Authority (RISA), Rwanda Space Agency (RSA), National Bank of Rwanda (BNR), Capital Market Authority in Rwanda (CMA), Rwanda Inspectorate of Competition and Consumer Protection (RICA), and the National Cyber Security Authority (NCSA).
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Data regulation will be another critical component of the law. Acknowledged as a key economic asset, data will be governed under a framework ensuring privacy, security, and responsible usage while fostering the growth of a data-driven economy.
The government is committed to ensuring that AI adoption aligns with ethical and societal values. "Rwanda will develop ethical guidelines addressing data privacy, transparency, and fairness. These regulations will ensure that AI applications benefit society while maintaining ethical standards,” Mushimire emphasised.
The previous ICT law, proposed in 2008 and approved in 2016, underwent extensive consultations, which led to delays. To avoid similar setbacks, the current revision process is being streamlined.
"This time, the government is working efficiently by engaging a dedicated task force, industry experts, startups, and the public to ensure the new law is comprehensive and adaptable to Rwanda’s digital future,” Mushimire said.
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AI-driven diagnostics are enhancing healthcare outcomes, smart farming techniques are boosting agricultural productivity, and AI-powered fraud detection is strengthening financial security. In transportation, AI facilitates smart traffic management and predictive urban planning.
The revised law will not only regulate AI but also strengthen Rwanda’s digital economy by ensuring fair market competition, improving consumer protection, and supporting innovation. Fintech and e-commerce regulations will create a structured environment for startups and investors, fostering a more dynamic and inclusive digital marketplace.
As part of Rwanda’s broader digital transformation strategy, the government has set an ambitious goal to develop 50 AI applications across healthcare, education, agriculture, finance, and public administration. These initiatives aim to address local challenges through automation and data-driven decision-making.
To support this vision, the government is considering establishing a National AI Research and Development Hub, fostering collaboration between the government, private sector, and academic institutions.
This hub will provide resources such as access to data, AI tools, and specialised expertise to aid the creation of scalable AI applications. The government will also promote public-private partnerships by facilitating collaborations between local startups, international tech firms, and research institutions, driving knowledge-sharing and co-developing AI solutions tailored to Rwanda’s needs.
To ensure long-term sustainability, Rwanda is committed to investing in AI education and workforce development. Enhancements to e-Government services aim to improve accessibility and efficiency, while updates to online content policies will create a safer, well-regulated digital space.