FEATURED: Irembo expands digital public services: New features, lower tariffs introduce
Thursday, September 05, 2024
Participants pose for a group photo at a media event that aims to educate Rwandans on navigating the platform's various online services, on Wednesday, September 4.

Irembo, Rwanda's leading software company, and digital public services platform, continues to advance the accessibility and efficiency of government services through its IremboGov platform.

Committed to simplifying access to over 220 public services, the company launched the Byikorere campaign, introduced the Ntuyarenze Tariff, and enhanced support channels to improve user experience and promote digital literacy.

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During a media event on Wednesday, September 4, officials emphasised their ongoing efforts to educate Rwandans on navigating the platform&039;s various services, aligning with Rwanda’s vision of becoming a digital society.

"Over the past 10 years, we’ve learned that our work is never fully done because technology constantly evolves and demands change. The more services we provide, the more dependencies we create, and the more essential it becomes to manage these services effectively.

"For example, our investment in infrastructure and capabilities was driven by the urgent need to accommodate new services around the clock,” said Patrick Gategabondo, Chief Operations Officer at Irembo.

Patrick Gategabondo, Chief Operations Officer at Irembo addresses media during the event on September 4.

Gategabondo highlighted the importance of continuous improvement, citing the demand for seamless service from both locals and tourists, particularly at points like the airport where visa services are integrated.

"You may design and build the most beautiful technology, but without focusing on adoption—both by users and the officers managing these services—you risk falling short. Adoption is an area where we must continually invest,” he added.

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Discussing Irembo&039;s expansion plans, he shared, "From the outset, our vision for Irembo was to create a solution that could be universally applicable. Our ultimate goal is to build a platform that serves not just Rwanda, but the entire Global South. We face similar challenges across the region, such as reaching our citizens and ensuring access to essential services. We believe that the model we've developed here can be adapted to other regions, including Central, Western, Southern, and Eastern Africa, and even beyond.

"We are confident that we're on the right track and are optimistic about the possibility of extending our project’s reach to new areas soon.”

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"As part of our expansion strategy, we're also focusing on developing a preference centre. Our collaboration with the government to address challenges, particularly in government-to-citizen interactions, has been a cornerstone of our work. Now, we’re looking to expand this approach to business-to-citizen and business-to-business solutions,” he said.

"Recently, we secured a license to operate within the digital payment ecosystem, allowing us to work more closely with businesses in the payments sector. This license enables us to facilitate transactions, sales, and digital payments more efficiently, saving time and streamlining processes with multiple payment methods available on our platform.

"Currently, Irembo supports all major payment methods, and we take pride in being the only platform in Rwanda available in all three official languages: English, French, and Kinyarwanda. This makes it accessible and ready to serve both the private and public sectors,” he concluded.

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IremboGov, recognised for its user-friendly interface, recently expanded its offerings, enabling Rwandans to digitally access a growing number of essential government services. New additions include the Business Operator License, Travel Clearance Requests, and services related to Rwandan nationality by acquisition, reflecting Irembo's commitment to continually adapting to the evolving needs of its users.

The Byikorere campaign has been instrumental in increasing digital engagement across Rwanda, driving a significant rise in the usage of IremboGov services. By raising awareness about the benefits of digital platforms, the campaign reached over 4.3 million citizens, leading to a 34.3 per cent growth in online service applications.

To make digital services more accessible, Irembo introduced the Ntuyarenze Tariff, reducing the cost of frequently used services. This initiative supports Irembo’s broader goal of democratising access to public services, and aligns with the government’s vision for a digitally inclusive Rwanda.

Irembo remains committed to providing exceptional customer support through a variety of channels. Users can access assistance via a 24/7 hotline, email, and a comprehensive FAQ section on the website. Additionally, Irembo has deployed community digital ambassadors to offer on-the-ground support and education about digital services.

For further assistance, you can reach out through the Call Centre at 9099, WhatsApp at 0792222220, or X support at @IremboSupport.

Comedian Clapton Kibonke was among local entertainers and journalists who attended a workshop as Irembo continues Byikorere campaign.
Irembo continues to advance the accessibility and efficiency of government services through its IremboGov platform. Courtesy
The media event aims to educate Rwandans on navigating the platform's various services, aligning with Rwanda’s vision of becoming a digital society.
To make digital services more accessible, Irembo introduced the Ntuyarenze Tariff, reducing the cost of frequently used services.