East Africa is set to convene a landmark gathering of policymakers, researchers, innovators, and development partners at the 4th East African Community (EAC) Regional Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Conference. The event will be held from 30 March to 1 April 2026 at the Kigali Convention Centre.
Theme: Harnessing AI for a Resilient and Inclusive Region
This year’s conference, organized under the theme “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for a Resilient, Inclusive, and Innovative East Africa,” will place artificial intelligence (AI) at the core of discussions. The gathering aims to move the region from aspiration to coordinated, impactful action in AI adoption and integration.
High-Level Dignitaries Expected
The conference will be officially opened by Rwanda’s Minister for ICT and Innovation, Hon. Paula Ingabire. Other notable attendees include the Chair of the EAC Council of Ministers, the EAC Secretary General, heads of participating institutions, and donor representatives.
Dr. Sylvance Okoth, Executive Secretary of EASTECO, emphasized the significance of the event:
“This conference is not merely a gathering of experts, it is a call to collective action. East Africa stands at a defining crossroads, and how we choose to harness Artificial Intelligence in the coming years will determine the prosperity and resilience of our region for generations to come.”
Universities and Research at the Forefront
Organized biennially by EASTECO and the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), the STI Conference series has become the region’s premier platform for science-driven dialogue and policy advancement.
IUCEA Acting Executive Secretary, Prof. Idris Rai, highlighted the role of higher education in the AI revolution:
“The university and research community across East Africa has a defining role to play in shaping an AI-driven future that is equitable, evidence-based, and grounded in the realities of our region.”
Inclusive Participation Across the Region
The conference will bring together high-level delegations from all eight EAC Partner States, including Heads of State representatives, ICT and Innovation Ministers, private sector leaders, civil society actors, and development partners. The platform aims to foster partnerships, align regional priorities, and accelerate responsible AI adoption for sustainable development.
Three Days of Plenaries, Exhibitions, and Innovation
Over three days, delegates will participate in plenary sessions, parallel paper presentations, ministerial dialogues, and youth and women entrepreneurship showcases. An innovation exhibition and partner side events will also provide opportunities for networking and knowledge sharing.
More than 680 delegates are expected to attend in person, with additional participants joining via hybrid streaming.
The 4th EAC Regional STI Conference marks a critical step for East Africa in leveraging AI as a transformative force for inclusive growth, innovation, and sustainable development.