The World Economic Forum for Africa held in Kigali, Rwanda has come to a close after three days of discussion on how to realize Africa’s next chapter through improved intercontinental collaboration and strengthened partnerships.
The prestigious international forum brought together over 1,500 delegates to Rwanda’s capital city including African heads of states, heads of major global corporations and bright young minds from all over the continent.
This year’s theme “Connecting Africa through digital resources” was unpacked through interactive panel sessions and live debates.
A general consensus emerged; Africa can no longer afford to be left behind. On a largely public platform, Africa’s leaders pledged to embrace the Fourth Industrial Revolution, through citizen-led approaches and as rightful owners of the continent’s development.
The President of Rwanda, H.E. Paul Kagame said, “Africa must harness the Fourth Industrial Revolution for everyone’s benefit, based on the inherent dignity and value of each person.”
As Rwanda aims to achieve a fully digitized economy by the year 2020, its three-fold approach was discussed. First, the government had to identify priority areas for investment; second, it had to create access by building solid infrastructure.
Finally, the need to equip the population with the necessary skills to participate in the digital sphere had to be addressed. This was done through investing in human capital by setting up institutions to support the digital shift.
During a meeting with the Global Shapers, the Chief Executive Officer of RDB, Francis Gatare said “What differentiates Rwanda is the government’s preparedness to embrace change and innovative solutions,” citing the government’s pilot project to use drones to deliver emergency supplies to remote parts of Rwanda.
Gatare also remarked the importance for African countries to open their borders and strengthen collaboration among the continent. “I hope you feel at home in Rwanda and you are welcome to do business here,” added Gatare.
The forum proved a momentous occasion for the Government of Rwanda to announce major projects and partnerships with some of the world’s leading technology and financial firms.
Among the most impressive news was the launch of the Kigali Innovation City (KIC), Rwanda’s flagship project with an estimated value of 1.9 billion USD to be built on the grounds of the Kigali Special Economic Zone.
Investment partners already on board mentioned during a press conference include the Carnegie Mellon University and the African Leadership University.
In addition, Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed with MasterCard, Ericsson and the Government of Jersey to collaborate on projects to fast-track Rwanda’s digital transformation, including the KIC.
The Government of Rwanda was lauded by many for being organized, clean and efficient. In addition, the elements of predictability in doing business and the anti-corruption drive were cited as outstanding attributes, major confidence builders for foreign investors.
This marks the first time Rwanda hosts WEF Africa, a major milestone as the country ramps up its conference tourism strategy through the Meeting, Incentive, Conference, Events (MICE) unit.
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