During a recent gathering at the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa, Bill Gates praised Rwanda for its pioneering use of artificial intelligence in maternal healthcare. The Microsoft co-founder and chair of the Gates Foundation described Rwanda’s approach as an exemplary model of how emerging technologies are helping African countries tackle specific development issues.
The event, held on June 2, brought together over 12,000 participants, including policymakers, healthcare professionals, youth leaders, and development partners. Gates used the platform to reaffirm his pledge of $200 billion in funding over the next 20 years—most of which will benefit African nations. These resources are intended to support health systems and sustainable development efforts across the continent.
President Kagame and Bill Gates
Gates emphasized that robust healthcare systems must be led by African innovators and institutions. He highlighted the potential of health and education to unlock Africa’s growth and prosperity, noting that Rwanda’s use of AI-driven ultrasound diagnostics for maternal care is a transformative step in this direction.
He also acknowledged how Africa’s young population is creatively leveraging AI to address real-world problems, further underlining the continent’s potential. Alongside Rwanda, Gates mentioned countries like Nigeria, Mozambique, Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, and Zambia, which are implementing digital tools and community-based health systems to reduce child deaths and control infectious diseases.
Companies like eFiche in Rwanda are deploying AI to enhance health outcomes, providing services such as predictive analytics, diagnostics, and streamlined health data systems. In a recent initiative, Rwanda’s health ministry launched a mobile-based AI training program for health workers, allowing them to upskill remotely.
Gates called for expanded investment in foundational healthcare services, stressing the importance of maternal nutrition and early childhood development in achieving long-term health benefits.
The conference featured global leaders like WTO chief Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, and activist Graça Machel, who all echoed the need for sustained global partnerships to support Africa’s progress.
Gates, who plans to give away 99% of his fortune, reiterated his vision of winding down the Gates Foundation by 2045, inspired by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie’s call for the wealthy to return their riches to society.
