Airtel Rwanda launched the ‘ConnectRwanda2.0’ campaign on Monday, October 16, aiming to provide more than a million Rwandans with affordable 4G smartphones.

The event took place in Kabarondo sector, Kayonza district and was attended by thousands of local citizens. Notable guests included Paula Ingabire, Minister of ICT and Innovation, CG (Retired) Emmanuel Gasana, Governor of Eastern Province, Emmanuel Hamez, Airtel Rwanda Managing Director, and other officials.

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The initiative offers 4G smartphones to the public at a low cost of Rwf20,000, making it more accessible to a wider Rwandan audience. Subscribers can also opt for a monthly payment plan of Rwf1,000, which includes unlimited calls and SMS across all networks and 1GB of daily internet connectivity.

In a press interview, Paula Ingabire, the Minister of ICT and Innovation, emphasized the importance of smartphones in today&039;s digital age.

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"Recent census data revealed that only 23 percent of households own smartphones, which posed challenges for accessing e-government services on Irembo, often requiring people to use intermediaries. We collaborated with various stakeholders, including telecom companies, to address this by making smartphones affordable and accessible. It's gratifying to see Airtel offering 4G smartphones at just Rwf20,000, effectively connecting Rwandans with calls, SMS, and internet access,” she said.

"This initiative addresses the affordability hurdle and we believe it will contribute to bridging the digital divide and allow more Rwandans to access essential e-government services conveniently,” Ingabire said.

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Emmanuel Hamez, the Managing Director of Airtel Rwanda, explained, "You may already know that we obtained the 4G license just two months ago. However, we realized there's a shortage of 4G handsets in the market. The penetration rate of 4G handsets is less than 30 percent, probably around 25 percent. Rolling out a robust 4G network wouldn't make sense if there are no handsets available. So, we've partnered with authorities to introduce an excellent, affordable smartphone into the market."

Hamez provided details about the phone, saying: "This smartphone features two cameras, 4G capability, 32 gigabytes of ROM, 2 gigabytes of RAM, and a 5-inch screen. It's a genuine 4G device, and we're offering it for an upfront payment of just Rwf20,000. To put this in perspective, this payment will provide you nearly a year of service at virtually no cost. You'll only need to pay Rwf1,000 per month, which is less than 1 dollar.”

"With this, you'll enjoy unlimited calls to all networks, unlimited SMS to all networks, and 1 gigabyte of data per day, amounting to 30 gigabytes per month. It's an unbeatable offer, specifically designed for those who are new to 4G smartphones. This will open up a world of possibilities for people, allowing them to register, create new email addresses via Gmail or other providers, access the Play Store, download applications like WhatsApp, utilize various social networking sites, including Instagram and Facebook, and enjoy streaming platforms like Netflix. We're also committed to educating those unfamiliar with this technology,” Hamez said.

He added that these phones will be available at all of their 200 service centers across Rwanda, making them accessible to people in cities and districts. He concluded: "This is an exciting development, especially just before the GSMA summit. We're not just making promises; we're taking action.”

Airtel clients welcome initiative

Twishime expressed his excitement, saying, "I've never used a smartphone before because they were always too expensive. Just yesterday our local leaders informed us that Airtel is addressing the price issue and offering a smartphone for Rwf20,000. I had to come and see for myself, and it's true. Now that I have it, I plan to learn how technology can benefit my career as a farmer."

Olive Kansiime, who already had a smartphone, but not one with 4G capabilities, shared her perspective: "I had a smartphone before, but it didn't have 4G. I've heard that 4G is incredibly fast for internet browsing. Since I provide e-banking services to clients, I need fast internet, and this phone will be incredibly useful in the coming days and years. The affordable pricing of the packs makes it even more appealing. It's a win-win situation for me."