MTN Rwanda has launched cloud computing services that could enable businesses minimise costs and improve productivity.

Cloud computing is the use of computer resources such as data and software through the Internet rather than from a local computer and use of servers.

Norman Munyampundu, the MTN business general manager, said the firm’s cloud services will provide business automation tools to enterprises across professional services, micro-finance, health and small-and-medium enterprises (SMEs) sectors.

"This service will provide businesses access to Information Communication Technology (ICT) tools, helping businesses minimise infrastructure costs,” he said in a statement on Wednesday.

He said instead of companies having separate systems for each department, the services will enable them share a common pool of resources and operate more efficiently.

MTN cloud cervices are available in Uganda, Ghana, Nigeria, Zambia, Cameroon, Guinea Conakry, Ivory Coast, South Africa and Swaziland.