Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh said that India is poised to deepen its engagement with Rwanda in emerging technologies, innovation ecosystem and next-generation sectors including Artificial Intelligence, Biotechnology and Atomic Energy. Because the two countries are looking for a structured framework for bilateral cooperation.
Dr Jitendra Singh held a bilateral meeting with Paula Ingbire, Minister of Information and Communication Technology and Innovation, Government of Rwanda at Sewa Tirtha, New Delhi.
Recalling the long-standing cordial relations between the two countries, Dr Jitendra Singh said, India's engagement with African countries in the field of Science and Technology has grown steadily under the framework of the India-Africa Forum Summit. He commended the selection of Rwanda as the first country to implement the Technology Transfer Programme for Africa and mentioned the successful India-Rwanda Innovation Development Programme (IRIGP), which has served as a model for similar collaborations across the continent.
Highlighting India's strong position in life sciences and biotechnology, Dr Jitendra Singh spoke about major national initiatives in the field of genomics, gene therapy and bio-manufacturing. He referred to the Bio-Nirmal Shakti Mission announced in the current financial year for which an initial allocation of Rs 10,000 crore has been made to promote high-quality, affordable medical devices, implants, and advanced healthcare solutions.
From the Rwandan side, Minister Paula Ingbire spoke about Rwanda's efforts to establish itself as a pan-African technology and innovation hub, centered around initiatives such as the Kigali Innovation City and AI Scaling Hub supported by global partners.
The Rwanda delegation expressed interest in strengthening cooperation in artificial intelligence, health technology, life sciences, energy and innovation ecosystems. Both sides discussed the possibility of connecting Indian innovation hubs, incubators and startups with their counterparts in Rwanda for mentoring, training and joint research.
It was also discussed that a draft of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on bilateral cooperation in the field of science, technology and innovation has been shared by Rwanda through the Ministry of External Affairs.
