Paula Ingabire

Paula Ingabire, Rwanda’s Minister of ICT and Innovation. Inagbire is leading bold initiatives that have brought in global partnerships - including a $7.5M Gates Foundation grant to build Africa’s first AI Scaling Hub.

Born in Kenya and driven by a passion for technology, Ingabire studied Computer Engineering and IT in Kigali before heading to Massachusetts Institute of Technology for a Master’s in Systems Design and Management.

From the start, she’s been at the forefront of Rwanda’s digital journey - helping move government services online, supporting businesses to go digital, and championing Smart Africa, a program to expand internet access across the continent. She also helped launch Kigali Innovation City, a hub designed to fuel African startups and tech talent.

Since becoming Minister in 2018, Ingabire has pushed policies on AI, blockchain, and digital inclusion - always with a focus on equity and opportunity. Her leadership has made Rwanda a recognized regional leader in tech innovation.

And her influence goes global. Ingabire sits with the World Economic Forum and other leading tech groups, shaping how the world thinks about the future of technology. She’s also earned her place on major lists like the Top 100 in AI and the TIME100 AI list.

Last updated: September 2025