President Paul Kagame of Rwanda has emphasized the need for global participation in shaping artificial intelligence (AI) to ensure its benefits are widely shared. During a virtual meeting of the AI for Good Global Commission, which he co-chairs, Kagame stated that the benefits of AI will grow if people across the world have a voice in determining how the technology develops. The commission aims to address the risk that AI could widen existing inequalities if access remains concentrated in wealthier countries and among well-resourced companies and communities.
The AI for Good Global Commission was launched on July 2, 2026, by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the United Nations agency responsible for telecommunications and digital technologies. Kagame co-chairs the commission with Marc Benioff, chair and chief executive of Salesforce, and Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General of the ITU, serves as vice-chair. The commission brings together over 40 founding members, including heads of state and government, technology executives, and leaders of international organizations.
A central concern for the commission is the global AI divide, with about 2.2 billion people worldwide remaining offline and unable to benefit from advances in digital technology, including AI. The commission aims to bring together governments, businesses, and international institutions to address barriers to access while supporting responsible innovation. This initiative provides Rwanda with an international platform to engage in discussions on AI governance, digital inclusion, and the role of emerging technologies in economic and social development.
The commission's work focuses on building trust in AI, widening access to the technology, and identifying practical ways to use it to address real-world challenges. During its inaugural meeting in Geneva, Switzerland, in July 2026, the commission reviewed progress and discussed next steps towards ensuring AI delivers economic and social benefits to people worldwide. The meeting also brought together fellow co-chair Marc Benioff and vice-chair Doreen Bogdan-Martin, alongside other commissioners.
Kagame's involvement in the commission reflects Rwanda's efforts to engage with global discussions on AI governance and digital inclusion. The initiative aims to identify practical solutions to ensure AI serves people across countries and communities, rather than deepening existing digital divides. By participating in the commission, Rwanda can contribute to shaping the future of AI and ensuring its benefits are shared equitably.
The AI for Good Global Commission's work will focus on finding solutions to the challenges posed by AI, including its potential to widen existing inequalities. The commission's efforts aim to support responsible innovation and ensure that AI is used to address real-world challenges. By bringing together governments, businesses, and international institutions, the commission hopes to create a more inclusive and equitable digital future.
As the commission continues its work, it is expected to have a significant impact on the global AI landscape. With Kagame at the helm, the commission is well-positioned to address the challenges and opportunities presented by AI. The commission's work will be crucial in shaping the future of AI and ensuring its benefits are shared by all.
Key points
- President Paul Kagame co-chairs the AI for Good Global Commission, aiming to ensure AI benefits are shared globally.
- The commission brings together over 40 founding members to address barriers to AI access and support responsible innovation.
- The initiative aims to identify practical solutions to ensure AI serves people across countries and communities, rather than deepening existing digital divides.
