President Paul Kagame Reassures Africans Over Fears of Job Losses Due to AI, Urges Smart Use of Technology for Development
President Paul Kagame has reassured those worried that the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) will leave many people unemployed, urging Africans to embrace and wisely use the technology to accelerate the continent’s development.
The Head of State made the remarks at the Transform Africa Summit (TAS), held in Guinea-Conakry on November 12, 2025, which focused on advancing Africa’s development agenda.
President Kagame recalled that when TAS was first held in Kigali over a decade ago, it was already evident that a technological revolution had begun. He said that Africa was expected to take advantage of this shift by investing in internet infrastructure to harness it for development.
He explained that the Smart Africa Alliance was established to bring African countries together in pursuit of this vision, a coalition that has since expanded to include 42 member states under the leadership of Lassina Koné.
“Our original ambitions at the beginning of this journey still stand,” Kagame said. “Together with our partners, we continue to make gradual progress. The difference now is that we live in a more complex world where technology is advancing faster than ever. AI—the theme of this year’s summit—is a clear example of that.”
President Kagame emphasized that Africa can reach its development goals if it adopts AI quickly and strategically, ensuring its application aligns with the continent’s specific needs and priorities for sustainable growth.
“For Rwanda alone, AI is projected to contribute up to 5% of the national GDP, driving innovation and knowledge in health, education, agriculture, and other sectors,” he said. “We have also taken steps to establish a National AI Policy to guide us on this journey.”
He noted that Africa is blessed with a youthful population that understands technology and is eager to use it for self-advancement. However, progress is slowed by gaps in investment in digital infrastructure, technical skills, and regulatory frameworks.
“The gaps in digital infrastructure investment, knowledge, and governance are what hold us back,” Kagame stated. “Bridging these gaps requires strong collaboration between governments and the private sector.”
President Kagame commended the Smart Africa Alliance for its initiative to establish the Africa AI Council and create an AI Fund, describing both as crucial pillars in Africa’s path toward sustainable development.
“Making the best use of our resources is more important than ever,” he said. “I commend Smart Africa for establishing the Africa AI Council and planning for an AI Fund, both of which are key foundations for achieving our continent’s priorities.”
The President also acknowledged concerns surrounding AI—particularly regarding the future of work, data privacy, and security—but said some of these fears are unfounded. He urged Africans to learn how to live with and benefit from this technological revolution.
“This is not the first or last technological revolution that will happen in Africa or around the world,” Kagame said. “We are constantly reminded that science and technology are powerful engines of innovation and productivity, not tools that replace people.”
He concluded by reassuring those anxious about the rapid pace of technological change, noting that every new wave of innovation has ultimately improved people’s lives. “Africa must seize this moment and make the most of it,” he said.
