The impactful event took place at MTN Rwanda's headquarters in Nyarutarama and was attended by key leaders and MTN staff. During the occasion, 30 cutting-edge smartphones were handed over to Rwanda Assistive Technology Access (RATA), which will distribute them to over 100 visually impaired individuals across Rwanda.
These smartphones are equipped with innovative software that supports accessibility by enabling users to interpret web content via voice assistance or Braille technology. This transformative functionality allows users to access important information, navigate platforms, and engage seamlessly with apps, fostering full integration into the digital ecosystem.
Several beneficiaries expressed their heartfelt gratitude, calling these devices life-changing technology. Niyonasenze Anita, a recipient, described this milestone as a dream come true. She commented: “Dreams take time, but today is the day I’ve been waiting for. Thanks to MTN, my ambitions for digital inclusion are now within reach.”
MTN Rwanda’s CEO, Monzer Ali, underscored MTN’s dedication to bridging technological gaps and ensuring equal opportunities in the digital space.
He stated, “I do not see disabilities; I see unique abilities that others lack. We've equipped them with 30 high-performance smartphones and provided training for them to operate as Mobile Money agents. This initiative is about creating digital equity.”
Ali further reflected on the 21-day Y’ello Care initiative, explaining its vision to uplift communities by fostering lasting positive impacts through technology. “Our mission is to ensure that no one is left behind while driving digital transformation across Rwanda,” he affirmed.
MTN Rwanda’s Head of External Relations, Alain Numa, elaborated on this year’s Y’ello Care initiative’s objectives: integrating rural communities into the digital sphere, ensuring inclusive access to technology, and empowering individuals through education in cutting-edge tech solutions.
As part of these efforts, MTN collaborated with the Ministry of Health to provide advanced phones to 100 community health workers. Another 100 health workers received solar panels, enabling efficient phone charging and uninterrupted operations in remote areas.
Additionally, MTN partnered with the Ministry of ICT and Innovation to teach digital literacy skills to several groups, including youth at Mahama Refugee Camp.
Discussing stakeholder inclusion, Alain Numa remarked, “Our initiatives have benefited numerous communities directly and indirectly through our beneficiaries. Today’s engagement with visually impaired individuals reinforces MTN’s commitment to inclusivity in technology-driven solutions.”
Jean Paul Musugi, Head of Mobile Money operations, spotlighted the importance of Y’ello Care in fostering collective advancement. He explained, “Mobile Money plays a fundamental role in national development. Through Y’ello Care, we aim to empower all Rwandans and create pathways for equal progress.”
Musugi emphasized that true development originates from reinvesting in overlooked regions. “We desire to uplift communities by revisiting areas often left behind, making holistic progress a reality for all Rwandans,” he said.
Dr. Muyombo Thomas, Head of Blood Transfusion at RBC, praised MTN Rwanda for its consistency in providing annual support through initiatives like Y’ello Care. He noted, “Sharing the fruits of success with customers is a commendable value MTN represents.”
Dr. Muyombo encouraged blood donation as an impactful act to save lives. He clarified that institutions or eligible individuals under age 65, who meet medical criteria, could donate freely.
He outlined exceptions for eligibility, including minors, menstruating women, and individuals with chronic illnesses.
Reflecting on the importance of blood donations, Dr. Muyombo cited Yvan Buravan’s battle with cancer as a reminder of why donating is crucial. “Blood donation saves lives—you could safeguard another person’s future or even your own,” he shared.
He explained, “Unused blood expires after 120 days. Donating it ensures you're improving your life and extending benefits to others simultaneously.”
The "21 Days of Y’ello Care" program began on June 2, 2025, in Rubavu District with the provision of computers for digital education. This annual campaign involves MTN employees dedicating at least eight working hours towards initiatives aimed at uplifting underprivileged individuals and communities.
On the program’s final day, MTN Rwanda employees, along with Mobile Money Rwanda staff, collectively donated blood to save lives. Their efforts are expected to benefit over 140 individuals across Rwanda.
Since its launch in 2007, the Y’ello Care initiative has focused on education, healthcare, social welfare, and government collaboration to foster long-lasting development.
MTN Rwanda reinforces its commitment to sustainable progress by advocating for inclusivity in technology and bridging inequalities within the digital divide.
MTN Rwanda concluded its 21-day Y’ello Care program
30 smartphones were donated to visually impaired individuals
The devices aim to assist over 100 beneficiaries
MTN Rwanda CEO Monzer Ali leads the initiative
MTN Rwanda partnered with Mobile Money Rwanda Ltd
MTN CEO addresses attendees during the closing ceremony
He emphasized the empowering abilities of individuals with disabilities
Jean Paul Musugi stressed inclusivity as a priority for technological advancement
Alain Numa emphasized the impact-wide reach seen across Rwanda
MTN employees' significant blood-donation impact holistically improves lifesaving measures