By RWANDAPODIUM
Regional data centers
Rwanda is seeking Korean investment in data centers, and Iradukunda proposed sharing infrastructure across countries to avoid duplicating investments.
“We have an opportunity to cooperate as regional blocs to create data center capabilities that can serve the continent’s needs,” he said.
Such projects would depend on demand from governments and businesses, he said, pointing to the expansion of online services in Rwanda.
“I would invite companies looking to invest in data center capabilities to come and use the incentives we offer,” Iradukunda said.
The Rwandan government provides investors with support in accessing land, electricity and other services, while the Rwanda Development Board assists with business registration and regulatory requirements.
“Rwanda can provide a launchpad and a testbed for technologies and services,” he said, citing similar challenges in healthcare, education and agriculture across the continent.
Rwanda hosted the Global AI Summit on Africa last year and launched an AI council for Africa with Smart Africa, an alliance of African countries and international organizations and companies, according to Iradukunda. The country also hosts programs to exchange knowledge and expertise with other African nations, he added.
South Korea outlined plans to expand AI and digital cooperation with Africa at the eighth Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation Ministerial Conference in Seoul last month, attended by ministerial-level delegations from 45 African countries.
The proposed K-AI Package would link AI services, data centers and power infrastructure with projects financed through South Korea’s Economic Development Cooperation Fund, according to South Korea’s finance ministry.
Asked what was slowing AI cooperation between Rwanda and Korea, Iradukunda did not identify specific barriers.
“At this point, I would not say there are obstacles,” he replied. “We are very open to investment.”
“Korean companies and the Korean government can find a true partner in the government of Rwanda and our private sector,” Iradukunda said.
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