MTN Rwanda has completed a major expansion and modernisation of its network in City of Kigali, aimed at extending coverage, enhancing user experience, and preparing for 5G integration.
This upgrade will improve connectivity, particularly in underserved areas, supporting access to essential services in education, healthcare, and social interactions, while aligning with Rwanda's socio-economic and environmental objectives.
The initiative also enables consumers and businesses to conveniently access MTN services across various devices and locations, including rural and remote regions.
This aligns with MTN Rwanda's vision, rooted in its Ambition 2025 strategy of leading digital solutions demonstrating its commitment to bringing the benefits of connectivity to all.
The upgraded network infrastructure is also set to benefit enterprise sectors such as education, health, mining, and transport by offering flexible, cost-effective solutions like Unified Communication platforms.
Additionally, the modernisation will enhance mobile money services, with increased capacity and fiber infrastructure addressing current challenges during peak hours or crowded events, further boosting convenience and reliability.
Among the key figures leading this charge are Francis Ndamutsa, who oversees Capital Projects Governance, and Yvonne Nshuti, a Network Performance Supervisor at MTN.
Francis Ndamutsa
Ndamutsa’s career in telecommunications began with a solid foundation that opened the way for his diverse expertise.
"Earlier on, I gained valuable experience in various engineering roles, depending on my understanding of mobile network technologies. As I progressed, I transitioned into project management and strategic initiatives, enabling me to influence significant network transformation programs,” he added.
One of his proudest achievements was being part of a pioneering team that deployed the first 3G network, achieving an impressive throughput of 1 Mbps.
"This experience ignited my passion for driving digital transformation in the telecommunications sector,” he said.
In 2024, Ndamutsa directed a network transformation program utilising LTE technology across multiple layers: LTE 700, LTE 2100, and LTE 1800.
"This advancement has resulted in impressive throughput and browsing speed of up to 180 Mbps, which is a substantial increase from the previous rate of 1 Mbps. I take great pride in how we've integrated advanced technologies to improve network performance and user experience,” he added.
Collaboration has been essential in implementing these projects, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements while delivering reliable services.
"My journey is driven by a commitment to leveraging technology to connect people and enhance lives,” he added.
Ndamutsa acknowledged that one of the challenges they face is keeping up with rapid technological advancements, adapting to evolving regulatory requirements, and balancing both technical and strategic roles while meeting rising consumer expectations.
"As demand for faster and more reliable connectivity continues to grow, it is essential to align with user expectations while ensuring high service quality," he said.
He also noted the importance of effective resource allocation and budget management, saying, "Large-scale network transformations require substantial financial investment. Without adequate funding, the implementation of various transformation programs can be significantly delayed."
Yvonne Nshuti
MTN has been a key player in Rwanda's telecommunications landscape for the past 25 years, transforming lives across the country.
Nshuti, a Network Performance Supervisor at MTN, shared her thoughts on the telecommunications industry, emphasising its role in connecting people globally and enhancing lives in various sectors, including health, agriculture, and education.
"If you're looking to be part of something big and impactful, this is the best industry and a perfect choice," she said.
To succeed in telecommunications, Nshuti stressed the importance of developing key skills and knowledge.
"Among these skills are courses in computer science or information technology to build a strong foundation in programming and networking, as well as specialised programs in telecommunications engineering.
"These will provide insights into designing and managing communication systems, including 5G technology, which we currently do not have. Today, we operate with 2G, 3G, and 4G, but we're planning to introduce 5G as well," she added.
Nshuti stated that they are currently planning to introduce 5G, having conducted a successful trial, with plans for a launch in the coming years.
She also noted the necessity of cybersecurity education, saying, "Courses in cybersecurity are essential everywhere, not only in technology, for learning how to protect networks and data."
Furthermore, she emphasised the value of skills in data analytics and data science to better understand customer needs, along with project management courses to help lead teams through change.
"Focusing on user experience design will also enable you to create user-friendly solutions that stand out in a competitive market. By pursuing these courses such as computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, data analytics, and project management—you will be equipped to thrive in telecommunications and make a real difference in people's lives," she said.
Nshuti shared her own educational background, saying, "I personally did a bachelor's in electronics and telecommunications, and I recently completed my MBA in project management.
This combination of knowledge has helped me succeed in supporting the team and in the Kigali modernisation project."
Her experience allows her to effectively support the project's goals through problem-solving and leadership.
"As a network performance advisor, I closely monitor upgraded sites to ensure that MTN's 2G, 3G, and 4G networks meet key performance standards. Working alongside my colleagues, we swiftly address customer complaints, ensuring consistent and reliable services," she said.