The groundbreaking 5G technology has been strategically launched in Kigali at major business and developmental landmarks, including the Kigali Convention Centre, KABC building, and Kigali Heights.
MTN Rwanda revealed plans to expand 5G coverage across additional prominent areas in Kigali and nationwide within weeks, underscoring their commitment to leading innovation.
MTN Rwanda CEO Monzer Ali emphasized the transformative ambitions behind the rollout, explaining, “In the coming weeks, we will fast-track the deployment of 5G to regions crucial for Rwanda’s development, such as schools and innovation hubs. This isn’t just an internet upgrade—it’s a catalyst for economic and societal progress.”
He elaborated on the pivotal sectors set to benefit immensely: cutting-edge healthcare facilitated by real-time connectivity, advanced visual-based education, smart agriculture utilizing rapid data exchange, and seamless operations for development-driven ventures reliant on high-speed internet.
Ali added, “With 5G, doctors can remotely undertake complex procedures or provide live assistance to patients, even in remote areas. Entrepreneurs and startups will also gain tools for swift problem-solving, enhancing productivity.”
This innovative step was made possible through MTN Rwanda’s collaboration with Ericsson, a global leader in telecom technology. With upgraded infrastructure, MTN customers using 5G-compatible devices can connect immediately in areas where the service is live.
Didas Ndoli, MTN Rwanda’s Head of Corporate Services, portrayed Kigali’s implementation as merely the first step in a nationwide journey. He stated, “This marks the beginning. We aim to ensure that this cutting-edge technology enriches every region in Rwanda, enabling all citizens to embrace modern connectivity and innovation.”
Clarifying concerns about costs, Ndoli assured that 5G does not come with added charges. He explained, “We’ve evolved from 2G to 3G, transitioned to 4G, and now introduce 5G. Two years ago, we simplified 4G bundles, eliminating the 3G option. Similarly, 5G pricing remains the same as 4G. We prioritize value delivery and evaluate opportunities for reductions as adoption grows.”
Ndoli also highlighted 5G’s applications beyond mobile phones: “Its capacity transcends smartphone usage, ushering in transformative advancements in sectors like healthcare, education, international conferences, gaming, and beyond.”
MTN underlined significant investments to ensure impactful yet cost-effective 5G projects for Rwanda. CEO Monzer Ali remarked, “5G forms the backbone of Rwanda’s shift to a tech-powered economy. It will foster equal opportunities for all Rwandans, reducing gaps in accessing modern services.”
Issa Nkusi, MTN’s Network Operations head, confirmed that 5G complements existing technology such as 4G and fiber optics. He noted, “5G simplifies complex, tech-driven tasks by boosting speeds and enabling simultaneous processing of massive data volumes. Smartphones from Apple and Transsion already support 5G, and other manufacturers are joining the revolution.”
MTN Rwanda credited the Rwandan government, particularly the Ministry of ICT and Innovation and RURA, for their vision in establishing policies and regulations that drive technological advancement.
Rwanda now stands among few Sub-Saharan African nations officially offering 5G. CEO Monzer Ali expressed pride in Rwanda’s forward-thinking approach: “It’s inspiring to see Rwanda leading innovation instead of waiting years for change. This is a leap toward transforming lives through technology.”
He concluded, “These initiatives lay the foundation for a Rwanda powered by technology. It signifies the onset of rapid advancement where every citizen actively participates in knowledge-based development.”
