Rwanda announces $480m AI and digital skills fund to train 1.5m youth

Thursday, 6th November 2025

by inAfrika Newsroom

Rwanda AI investment accelerated on Thursday as the government launched a $480 million digital-skills fund aimed at training 1.5 million young people in data science, cybersecurity, cloud engineering and machine learning. The program, led by the Ministry of ICT and Innovation, targets universities, technical colleges and private academies.

The fund combines public resources with contributions from global tech partners. Consequently, training centers will offer short professional modules, online certifications and internship pipelines. Officials said the goal is to create a workforce that can compete for remote jobs and support Rwanda’s emerging AI ecosystem.

Rwanda AI investment has grown in fintech, agriculture and public health. Local firms now use machine learning to predict crop disease and optimize transport fleets. Meanwhile, startups are testing AI tools for supply-chain visibility and small-business credit scoring.

In addition, the government will offer tax incentives for firms opening AI labs and hiring local graduates. Venture funds say clearer talent pipelines reduce risk for early-stage investments. However, analysts warned that brain drain could accelerate if salaries lag global benchmarks.

Officials argued that enabling remote work and cross-border service exports can keep skilled youth engaged. They will track job placement, freelance earnings and startup formation to gauge returns on the fund.