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By Winnie Kamau
Kigali, Rwanda: The African Peering and Interconnection Forum (AfPIF) was held this week at the Kigali Marriott Hotel in Kigali, Rwanda. The opening remarks were delivered by Mr. Antoine Sebera, the Chief Executive Officer of the Rwanda Information Society Authority (RISA), who welcomed delegates and applauded the Africa IXP Association (AFIX) and its partners for choosing Rwanda to host the annual forum for the second time, following its previous hosting in 2022.
Mr. Sebera highlighted Rwanda’s ongoing commitment to advancing regional digital connectivity, expanding resilient infrastructure, fostering cross-border cooperation, and driving affordable Internet access across the continent.
“Rwanda is committed to stronger digital connectivity, resilient infrastructure, regional cooperation and affordable access, as we build Africa’s capacity to harness AI and shape its digital future” urged Sabera.
Speaking on behalf of the local host organization, Ms. Grace Ingabire of the Rwanda Internet Community and Technology Alliance (RICTA) expressed gratitude to the African Internet community for their continued trust in RICTA’s hosting and local support.
She encouraged all attendees, partners, and stakeholders to actively contribute to the transformative changes AfPIF seeks to achieve in enhancing Internet connectivity throughout Africa and globally “We need to be part of the change that AfPIF aims to achieve for the connectivity of Africa and the world” she said.
Kyle Spencer, Executive Director of Af-IX, reinforced these perspectives “Hosting AfPIF 2026 in Rwanda offers a key opportunity to examine the practicalities of developing and strengthening Internet infrastructure in inland East and Central Africa” he said.
He also noted that “The forum is closely analyzing the specific challenges and growth opportunities within landlocked or inland markets that lack direct access to submarine cable landing stations while exploring how stronger interconnection, carrier-neutral data centres, and local content delivery can help build a more resilient and affordable Internet across Africa” , said Spencer.
At the AfPIF there was an expo which brought together organisations from across Africa’s digital infrastructure ecosystem to showcase their products, services, technologies and initiatives directly to the people building and shaping the Internet on the continent.
The expo offered a great chance to explore innovative solutions, foster partnerships, and network with potential clients and peers. Attendees actively engaged with the broader AfPIF community, enjoying some spirited friendly competition at the football and golf tables.
