Rwanda will next week host the ‘International Conference on the Development of an Equitable Information Society’. It will take place at the parliamentary buildings, on March 4 and 5.

The meeting will asses the role of African parliaments in developing the Information Communication and Telecommunications (ICT) policy.

It is organised and co-chaired by Rwanda, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, and the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNECA-DESA), under the auspices of the African Union Pan African Parliament.

Rwanda has of recent gained recognition for its aggressive drive in developing the ICT sector, which, according to officials, is one of the reasons the country has been entrusted to host such high level events.

"While investment in ICT infrastructure in Africa has improved dramatically in recent years, there is a need to ensure that the huge potential of ICT and the promises of the information societies are geared towards poverty reduction and improving the quality of life for all,” reads a statement, signed by Senate Secretary Fidele Rwigamba.

The statement adds that the conference, which will attract over one hundred delegates, will present a platform for them to share and debate on strategic issues concerning the opportunities driving the development of information society.  

"The expected outcomes of the conference will be a final declaration on the role and commitments of the African Parliaments in the development of an equitable information society in Africa,” it reads.

The conference is expected to draw Speakers and MPs from several African countries and ICT experts from across the continent.

Ends