The Omani delegation was headed by His Excellency Dr. Ali bin Amer Al Shidhani, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology for Communications and Information Technology, and included several officials from the ministry and representatives from a number of tech companies.

Oman’s participation aimed to explore the latest advancements, innovations, and technologies in the field of artificial intelligence, exchange knowledge and expertise with other countries, and showcase investment opportunities in Oman within the AI sector while strengthening collaboration with international tech companies.

The summit brought together over 1,000 participants, including policymakers, entrepreneurs, researchers, and investors from more than 95 countries. It also featured the participation of over 100 AI-focused companies. The objective was to accelerate AI innovations and align strategic policies to strengthen Africa’s AI capabilities and promote competitiveness and inclusive growth.

The summit also witnessed the launch of the Africa AI Council, which will spearhead the development of the continent’s AI ambitions. The event featured several panel discussions, workshops, and an exhibition showcasing over 100 promising AI companies in Africa. The summit focused on leveraging AI to create inclusive economic opportunities, foster innovation, and enhance workforce skills across the continent.

Bilateral Meeting

On the sidelines of the Global AI Summit, H.E. Dr. Ali bin Amer Al Shidhani met with H.E. Paula Ingabire, Minister of ICT and Innovation of Rwanda, to discuss potential areas of cooperation in the field of ICT. The two sides also exchanged insights on Rwanda’s digital transformation journey.

Memorandum of Understanding

Following the meeting, the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology of the Sultanate of Oman and the Ministry of ICT and Innovation of the Republic of Rwanda signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in the field of Information and Communication Technology. The agreement aims to facilitate the exchange of expertise and knowledge in ICT and support the growth of the digital economy.

The scope of cooperation includes sharing experiences in digital government services and digital transformation, expanding private sector engagement, integrating ICT and innovation systems, and promoting joint research initiatives in emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain, and the Internet of Things.

The MoU also covers collaboration in developing the cybersecurity and IT industries, AI and advanced digital technologies, as well as the exchange of knowledge to empower and support startups and SMEs in the tech sector. Furthermore, it includes cooperation on personal data protection and the broader digital economy.