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About This Event
Date: 4 to 6 March 2026
Location: Kigali, Rwanda
The 4th EAC Regional Science Technology and Innovation Conference will bring together policymakers, researchers, innovators, and industry leaders across East Africa for a major regional gathering focused on responsible Artificial Intelligence. Hosted by the East African Science and Technology Commission (EASTECO) and the Inter University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), the conference provides a platform for knowledge exchange, policy dialogue, and regional collaboration.
About the Conference
AI4EAC 2026 explores how intelligent technologies can accelerate inclusive socio economic transformation, enhance resilience, and strengthen innovation across key sectors. The conference aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the African Union Agenda 2063, STISA 2034, and the AU Continental AI Strategy.
Purpose
The conference aims to promote responsible AI development and adoption, encourage collaboration among regional stakeholders, and support research, innovation, and policy frameworks that guide East Africas digital transformation.
Conference Objectives
- Promote high level AI policy dialogue among policymakers, academia, private sector, and civil society
- Showcase AI driven solutions for regional development challenges
- Support dissemination of peer reviewed research and conference proceedings
- Promote partnerships and collaboration across the regional AI ecosystem
- Encourage uptake and scaling of AI research and innovation products
Who Should Attend
- Government ministries and agencies
- Regional economic communities and AU representatives
- Academia, researchers, and students
- Private sector and business leaders
- Innovators, startups, and technology hubs
- Civil society and development partners
Thematic Areas
- AI for Agriculture and Food Security
- AI for Health, Well being, and Biomedical Innovation
- AI for Education, Skills Development, and Research Excellence
- AI for Climate Resilience, Environment, and Natural Resource Management
- AI for Industry, Service Delivery, and the Economy
- AI Governance, Ethics, and Regional Cooperation
Call for Abstracts
Researchers and innovators are invited to submit abstracts of up to 300 words for scientific and innovation papers aligned with the six thematic areas. Accepted works will be featured in the Book of Abstracts and considered for publication in EAJSTI and conference proceedings.
Abstract Deadline: 12 January 2026
Notification: 2 February 2026
Full Papers: 13 February 2026
Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship
A dedicated session will highlight AI and digital innovations developed by young creators across East Africa. The session offers visibility, mentorship, investment opportunities, and engagement with policymakers.
Side Events
- East African Digital Leaders Forum on AI
- AUDA NEPAD STISA 2034 Investment Forum
Exhibitions and Sponsorship
Exhibitors will showcase AI and STI innovations to policymakers, investors, and development partners. Sponsorship packages range from Bronze to Platinum with branding and visibility benefits.
Programme Overview
The three day programme includes:
- High level policy dialogues
- Plenary and thematic sessions
- Innovation exhibitions
- Youth entrepreneurship showcase
- Ministerial roundtables
- Networking and partnership sessions
Contact Information
Email: conferences@easteco.org | easteco@eachq.org
Phone: +250 788310402 / +250 788165200
Participation is free but registration is required. Join the AI4EAC 2026 Conference to shape the future of responsible AI in the East African Community.
No sessions available yet. Please check back soon.
Important Logistics & FAQs
