The festival, the first of its kind in Rwanda, provides a platform to connect, engage, and discuss how emerging technologies can foster innovation, inclusion, and sustainable growth across the continent.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of ICT and Innovation, Eraste Rurangwa, welcomed delegates to Kigali and underscored Rwanda’s commitment to harnessing frontier technologies for inclusive development.

He noted that Rwanda is already applying blockchain and AI in key sectors to enhance efficiency and transparency.

“Blockchain is being used not just for finance but also to build trust in governance, while AI supports health, agriculture, and education,” he said. “Technology should help close gaps, not widen them. We want a future where a farmer in a rural village has the same access to market information as a trader in a major city.”

The Africa Blockchain Festival features high-level discussions, exhibitions, and workshops showcasing how digital innovations are shaping Africa’s socio-economic landscape. Participants will also explore opportunities for collaboration and investment in emerging tech ecosystems across the continent.

The event positions Rwanda as a growing hub for digital innovation and a leading voice in advancing inclusive technology-driven growth in Africa.