Online payment services could be enhanced further thanks to a new partnership between MTN and Rwanda Online Ltd.

The two firms have unveiled a new electronic platform to make payment for government services more cost efficient and less expensive.

The e-portal, code named ‘Irembo’, serves as one stop centre for those paying for government services and applications.

The initiative means MTN customers can now use MTN Mobile Money accounts to make payments for all government services including those available on the Irembo platform (www.irembo.gov.rw) or via USSD at *909#.

While launching the service at MTN Rwanda headquarters in Nyarutarama, the telecom firm’s Business general manager Norman Munyampundu noted the e-portal is designed to boost consumer convenience and help foster government’s efforts toward promoting cashless economy.

"It will now be easier for all Rwandans and businesses to access government services via a more technological advanced and most innovative platform,” he said.

He said MTN was committed to continuously provide convenient, easy and secure payment processes that harness the latest in mobile technology.

Clement Uwajeneza, the Chief Executive Officer, Rwanda Online Ltd, underscored the need to embrace such modes of payment to reduce the cost and time of transactions.

"Our most important goal is to ensure access to government is user friendly for citizens and businesses in Rwanda,” Uwajeneza said.

How it works

To access the portal, subscribers will have to enter the Bill ID/ Reference code or dial MTN *182# for those registered on mobile money platform and follow subsequent instructions.

Aline Uwitonze, a subscriber of MTN, said the initiative is a relief since it will ease congestion in banks and make the sector more competitive.

MTN Rwanda recently launched the 4G LTE on mobile phones enabling customers with 4G enabled devices to make voice calls and use mobile data on the 4G LTE network.

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