AI is reshaping every part of public life, from how governments analyse information to how they design public services. Countries across the world are grappling with the implications of these technologies, and Rwanda is investing early in the institutional capability required to govern them responsibly.

The Ministry of ICT and Innovation has already identified capability strengthening as a priority for implementing the National AI Policy, adopted in 2023. Cenfri’s team, including Stefan Steffen, Munezero Angelos and Kevin Kabera, working in close partnership with trainers from the Certa Foundation and Women Political Leaders, contributed specialised expertise in governance and inclusive AI practices in a November 2025 training. This collaboration ensured that participants received both technical clarity and a strong understanding of real-world applications.

The full day session introduced Members of Parliament to the foundations of artificial intelligence, with a clear focus on what these systems mean for governance, policymaking and long-term national development.

Around 150 participants attended, including members from the Chamber of Deputies, the Senate, and the Office of the Clerk together with other parliamentary staff. This made it one of the most extensive AI capacity building engagements held with Parliament.

The content was structured around seven sessions that introduced participants to the fundamentals of AI, with a particular emphasis on generative AI and how it is already embedded in their day-to-day environments. Participants explored practical tools, learned about the risks and limitations of AI systems, and discussed how governance frameworks can support responsible deployment in government. They also engaged with themes on gender and inclusion, which are essential for ensuring that AI strengthens rather than undermines equitable development. The final session introduced the FemAI project, highlighting the importance of diversity and representation in the future of AI governance.

Feedback from MPs was positive and highlighted a strong appetite for deeper engagement. Participants valued the practical examples and the open discussions, and they recommended extending the duration of future sessions to allow more time for exercises that relate directly to parliamentary work.

The session is also an important milestone for the Rwanda Economy Digitalisation (RED) Programme. RED aims to strengthen public institutions so they can use data and emerging technologies more confidently and effectively. This work complements broader efforts across government to institutionalise data- driven decision making and to embed AI in a way that aligns with Rwanda’s development vision.