Rwanda has launched a mandatory artificial intelligence (AI) training program for all civil servants, aiming to improve public service delivery, administrative efficiency, and digital literacy across the government.
The Ministry of ICT said the initiative covers all public employees, regardless of role, prior experience, or technical expertise. Officials emphasized that courses are designed to be accessible and manageable, requiring only a few hours of commitment per week.
“These trainings explain what AI is, how it works, and how it can be applied in daily tasks. It is both important and mandatory for all public servants to complete these courses. Institutions will support employees so they can participate while continuing their regular work,” the ministry said in a statement posted on social media on Monday, January 12.
The program forms part of Rwanda’s broader digital government strategy, which seeks to integrate information and communication technologies (ICTs) across all sectors to drive socio-economic development. Public administration is a priority area, with authorities highlighting AI’s potential to transform service delivery, enhance productivity, and reduce bureaucratic delays.
Rwanda’s AI initiative aligns with global trends identified by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA). In its 2024 E-Government Survey, the UN noted that AI can optimize public sector operations through automation, improve data classification, detect anomalies, and generate actionable recommendations for government decision-making. DESA emphasized that AI adoption could help countries deliver more efficient services amid tight budget constraints, particularly in low- and middle-income nations.
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However, the UN also cautioned that AI carries risks, including data bias, ethical challenges, security concerns, and social impacts. Persisting digital divides, especially in least developed countries, remain a significant barrier to fully harnessing AI in the public sector.
Rwanda has been steadily advancing its digital agenda. According to DESA, the country ranked 118th globally in the 2024 E-Government Development Index, scoring 0.5799 out of 1 — above the African average but below the global benchmark. Authorities hope that mandatory AI training will boost civil servants’ technical skills, accelerate the digitization of government processes, and help narrow the digital gap.
Experts argue that equipping public servants with AI skills is not only about technical proficiency but also about fostering a culture of innovation and data-driven decision-making within government institutions. By familiarizing staff with AI tools and applications, Rwanda aims to create a workforce capable of leveraging technology to enhance service delivery to citizens and businesses.
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The initiative comes amid growing interest in AI adoption across Africa, where governments are increasingly exploring digital solutions to address challenges such as administrative inefficiency, limited resources, and the need for more transparent and responsive governance. Rwanda’s government has been at the forefront of such efforts, implementing digital IDs, e-government services, and smart city projects in Kigali and other regions.
Rwanda’s rollout of AI training underscores a broader strategy to integrate emerging technologies into governance while preparing civil servants for future challenges. Officials have indicated that the program will be periodically evaluated and updated to keep pace with evolving AI tools and applications, ensuring civil servants remain adept at applying AI ethically and effectively.
“AI is no longer an abstract concept; it is part of everyday life and work. By equipping our civil servants with these skills, we are positioning Rwanda as a leader in digital government in Africa,” the Ministry of ICT said.
The initiative is expected to set a precedent in the region, with other African countries watching closely as Rwanda pioneers comprehensive, government-wide AI training for public administration.
