Rwanda is stepping into the global spotlight as it prepares to host the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Annual Meeting from October 6–10, 2025, in Kigali.
This marks only the second time ISO’s flagship event has been held on the African continent, following South Africa’s turn in Cape Town in 2019.
Mr Raymond Murenzi, Director General of the Rwanda Standards Board (RSB), expressed the nation’s readiness, anticipating the arrival of over 170 national standards bodies, alongside leaders from governments, the private sector, and technical experts. The gathering will delve into how standards can power industrial growth and help solve global issues.
Standards, though often unnoticed, are essential in daily life—they ensure safety, enable tech compatibility, and keep global trade humming. As the digital world expands, especially in areas like artificial intelligence (AI), the need for universal standards becomes critical. “Quality standards ensure that technologies can function globally and integrate smoothly,” Mr. Murenzi said. “Devices from Rwanda should work effortlessly with those from the U.S. or Asia.”
A major theme in Kigali will be harmonizing AI language through ISO/IEC’s work on standardized terminology. Mr. Murenzi emphasized that shared definitions across countries and languages are foundational for true tech interoperability. Beyond language, the conference will address broader themes such as safety, ethics, and support for developing nations in adapting to AI.
Rwanda’s commitment to the digital economy is clear—investments in innovation hubs, university research, and digital skill-building are already underway. The country has also set up national committees focused on AI, with input from academia, industry, and government. “We’re not just here to follow,” Mr. Murenzi said. “We want Rwanda and Africa to be part of shaping these standards.”
The event is expected to attract over 1,000 international delegates and will feature workshops, exhibitions, and networking opportunities. This offers Rwanda a chance to display its innovations and build valuable global partnerships. “We’re here to exchange knowledge,” Mr. Murenzi added. “We’ll learn from seasoned institutions, but we’ll also share our own unique insights.”
As October nears, RSB and the Ministry of ICT and Innovation are putting the final touches on preparations. With Kigali rising as a regional tech hub, hosting ISO’s Annual Meeting is both a celebration of Rwanda’s progress and a bold step toward influencing the global tech standards of tomorrow.
Gabriel UZABAKIRIHO / KIGALI TIMES