The Ministry of ICT in Rwanda, in partnership with the World Economic Forum, last week launched the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR Rwanda) in Kigali.
The centre will focus on critical areas such as data governance and emerging technologies which include machine learning and artificial intelligence.
C4IR Rwanda joins a network of 15 centres that spans four continents. It is the second centre in Africa, joining C4IR South Africa.
What is the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR)?
Klaus Schwab, Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum, first coined the term back in 2016.
It is characterized by the joining of technologies such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, gene editing and advanced robotics.
4IR in Sub-Saharan Africa
Sub-Saharan Africa had made significant progress towards the 4IR prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. In Kenya for instance, property records were verified using blockchain technology. Agricultural companies in Ghana also used mobile and web technology to support farmers. Rwanda incorporated drones into its health care system by using them to deliver blood to remote areas.
Challenges
A myriad of challenges however do exist in the realization of 4IR in Sub-Saharan Africa. Key among them is an undercapitalized start-up eco system and ICT infrastructural gaps. Most education systems in the region often lack adequate training to take advantage of the 4IR. According to UNCTAD's "Technology and Innovation Report 2021", Africa was also found to be the world's least prepared region to take advantage of 4IR technologies.
4IR Initiatives
Various international bodies have taken the key role in supporting Africa's digital transformation. In line with its Jobs for Youth in Africa Strategy, The Africa Development Bank (AfDB) launched the Coding for Employment (CfE) Scheme. The program aims to provide young people with the skills required in many 4IR sectors.

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Omani Joy

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