From October 22nd to 24th, 2025, the Rural Development Interdiocesan Service (RDIS) held a three day transformative training titled “AI for Impact” at its Head Office in Muhanga District. The training was facilitated by Mr. Sangil Peter Hwang, CEO and Founder of Arise AI Agency, a leading company in Rwanda dedicated to building AI solutions and AI leaders through innovation, digital transformation, and certified training programs.
The “AI for Impact” training aimed to introduce RDIS staff to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its potential to optimize daily office operations, strengthen decision making, and drive efficiency across various departments. The core objective was to equip participants with practical knowledge of AI tools that can support data management, report generation, communication, and project monitoring within the organization.
Photo: Peter Hwang and William Chung, from Arise AI
Mr. Hwang shared his expertise in AI driven systems and guided articipants through interactive sessions that demonstrated how AI can streamline administrative tasks, automate workflows, and support digital transformation in development organizations. He emphasized that “AI is not replacing people; it is empowering them to work smarter, faster, and with greater impact.”
Artificial Intelligence is transforming the world across multiple sectors, from healthcare and education to agriculture and business, by enabling data driven decision making and creating smarter systems that enhance human productivity. Rwanda has emerged as one of the leading African countries investing in AI innovation and digital transformation. The Government of Rwanda, through initiatives like the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR), the Rwanda AI Policy, and partnerships with global tech institutions, continues to promote the responsible adoption of AI to advance socio economic development and improve public service delivery.
In alignment with these national efforts, RDIS recognizes the growing importance of digital literacy and innovation in achieving sustainable development. The “AI for Impact” initiative reflects RDIS’s commitment to preparing its staff to actively contribute to Rwanda’s vision of becoming a knowledge based and technology driven economy. Throughout the training, participants engaged in discussions on how AI can support RDIS’s environmental, social, and economic projects. They learned how to integrate AI in areas such as environmental monitoring, resource management, communication systems, and project reporting. The sessions also highlighted the ethical use of AI, ensuring technology remains a tool for human progress and community wellbeing.
Speaking during the closing session, RDIS management expressed appreciation to Mr. Sangil Peter Hwang and Arise AI Agency for their contribution to capacity building and knowledge sharing. They emphasized that digital transformation is a strategic priority for RDIS, enabling the organization to enhance efficiency, transparency, and impact in its operations.
Participants described the “AI for Impact” training as enlightening and empowering, acknowledging that it opened new perspectives on the role of technology in development work. The event concluded with a shared commitment to continue integrating AI driven solutions across RDIS programs, marking a key step in the organization’s journey toward digital empowerment and sustainable development.
Photos: Participants & Group photo after the training session