Rwandan President Paul Kagame on Monday held talks with Microsoft co-founder, philanthropist and Gates Foundation Chair Bill Gates, reaffirming a partnership spanning more than two decades and exploring new avenues for collaboration in healthcare, agricultural transformation, artificial intelligence (AI) and digital public infrastructure.The meeting highlighted the Gates Foundation’s continued support for Rwanda’s development agenda, particularly in strengthening healthcare systems, improving nutrition, boosting agricultural productivity and promoting innovation-driven growth.
Recognized globally for its robust community health network, high vaccination coverage and effective use of digital technologies in public service delivery, Rwanda remains a key partner in the Foundation’s efforts to advance sustainable development across Africa.Prior to the meeting, Gates visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where he paid tribute to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi by laying a wreath at the burial site of more than 250,000 victims.Reflecting on the visit, Gates wrote in the memorial’s guestbook: “It is very impressive how Rwanda has recovered from the tragedy of the Genocide and is building a strong country.
This memorial is very important to keep the memories of the victims.”Artificial intelligence featured prominently in the discussions. Earlier this year, the Gates Foundation, OpenAI and the Government of Rwanda launched the Horizon1000 initiative, a US$50 million programme aimed at deploying AI-powered tools to strengthen primary healthcare, with Rwanda selected as the first country to implement the initiative.The meeting reaffirmed the shared commitment of President Kagame and the Gates Foundation to leverage innovation, technology and strategic partnerships to accelerate inclusive development and improve the quality of life for the people of Rwanda.
