As Rwanda prepares for elections in July, technology is playing a crucial role in modernising the electoral process, according to Charles Munyaneza, the Executive Secretary of the National Electoral Commission (NEC).

During a press conference, on June 20, Munyaneza explained how the commission has embraced technology which is changing the way elections are managed.

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Munyaneza highlighted NEC&039;s dedication over the past two years in developing a new system called Rwanda Election Management Information System that is being used for the first time. The new system was built in collaboration with various tech groups in the country.

"One of the most notable changes is the modernisation of the voter list. Previously, checking voter registration status and updating personal information was not a simple process. But now with the new system, Rwandans can verify their registration details, update their identification, or transfer from one polling station to another using their personal telephones or laptops,” Munyaneza emphasised.

Technology also played a crucial role in increasing voter participation among the Rwandan diaspora. Unlike previous elections where diaspora members had to travel to embassies for registration, the new system allows eligible voters to register from their homes.

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"The number of diaspora voters increased by almost three times compared to previous elections where they increased to 62,000 from 22,000 and it was all because of technology that doesn’t require members of the diaspora to move from their homes to the embassies for registration," Munyaneza said.

The online system also made changes in streamlining election observers’ selection. The selection process previously involved extensive paperwork and long response times. Now, local and international observers can apply online, receiving responses without having to visit NEC offices in Kigali.

"We provided a link that uses technology where a person requires this and he or she is given feedback online without coming to NEC offices and they will only come to collect their cards once they are approved," Munyaneza explained.

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"Managing election volunteers has also been improved by using technology. Each volunteer is assigned a code indicating their designated polling station. The training and identification processes have been digitized, allowing easy tracking of volunteers who change their assigned locations and this ensures smooth operations on election day,” Munyaneza said.

The new technology also facilitated the verification of candidates&039; credentials and eligibility. The system helped check the provided identification cards (IDs) and ensure that all requirements are met in terms of age and place of birth.

"While electronic voting is not yet workable, technology will play a crucial role on election day. The system ensures efficient transmission of ballots from various tallying stations and the central counting process. From sending ballots from different tallying stations, counting them in general, and the publication of votes cast; all this will involve the use of technology." Munyaneza explained.