Localising AI solutions: Practitioner experiences from Rwanda

In this fifth episode of the Humanitarian AI series, Deogratius Kiggudde shares lessons from Rwanda’s innovation ecosystem. He shows how government collaboration, academic partnerships, and open‑source approaches create a culture of experimentation. Drawing on his experience with community‑centred tech, Deogratius highlights practical pathways for humanitarian AI—small language models, sustainable design, and real‑world connectivity solutions. His insights reveal how resource‑efficient, locally driven innovation can help organisations overcome barriers while keeping communities at the heart of technology.

Host:

• Ka Man Parkinson, Communications and Marketing Lead, Humanitarian Leadership Academy.

Guest:

• Deogratius Kiggudde, Programs Manager, Upanzi Digital Public Infrastructure Network, Carnegie Mellon University Africa