Paul Kagame named co-chair of UN AI for Good Global Commission

Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame joins Marc Benioff to lead the UN AI for Good Global Commission, guiding inclusive AI development and bridging digital divides.

President Paul Kagame has been appointed Co-Chair of the AI for Good Global Commission, a United Nations initiative promoting responsible and inclusive use of artificial intelligence. He will lead alongside Marc Benioff, CEO of Salesforce, with Doreen Bogdan-Martin of ITU serving as Deputy Chair.

The commission aims to: Reduce inequality by ensuring AI benefits both developed and developing nations. Guide discussions on AI use rather than impose strict regulations. Set technical standards to ensure safe and effective deployment. Build capacity in countries still developing their digital infrastructure.

Supported by ITU and UNESCO, the commission builds on the legacy of the UN Broadband Commission (2010–2025).

Over 40 leaders are part of the commission, including: Jensen Huang (Nvidia), Andy Jassy (Amazon), Brad Smith (Microsoft), founders of Anthropic and Cohere, leaders from Accenture, Reliance Industries, and government officials from Singapore and Nigeria, Presidents of Estonia and Iceland, alongside AU representatives

Under Kagame, Rwanda has become a technology hub in Africa. AI is already applied in: healthcare, education, justice, Agriculture and security

On June 8, 2026, Rwanda’s cabinet approved the creation of a National AI Agency to accelerate innovation, investment, and governance.

Kagame’s focus is ensuring developing countries are not left behind in the AI revolution. His goal is to transform AI projects into tangible investments that drive innovation and inclusive growth. Marc Benioff echoed this vision, stressing that AI must remain trustworthy: “The benefits of AI mean nothing if people cannot trust it.”