Following the completion of infrastructural works on Karisimbi mast, members of the business community are gearing up to fully exploit the benefits of the mast.

Karisimbi is a 40-metre mast located at one of the highest mountain summits in the country.

Its overall aim is to enhance electronic communications and broadcasting services in the country and the region.

Speaking to The New Times yesterday, Louis Kamanzi, the Director of Flash FM, said that the project is of great importance to radio frequency management systems as it would boost communications in the country and beyond.

"Since the infrastructural works on Karisimbi mast are complete, we, as the business community, are going to discuss with the government and see how we can fully exploit the project,” he noted.

The project involves the supply, installation and commissioning of broadcasting, ICT, Telecommunication, WiMAX, air navigation surveillance and radio frequency management systems.

According to Srinath Vardhineni, the General Manager of MFI Office Solutions, a local IT company, Karisimbi project is without doubt a worthwhile investment.

"We hope to benefit a lot from the venture in terms of making ICT services affordable to Rwandans,” he said.

Vardhineni stated that the mast was vital for individuals involved in social communication and businesses that depend on fast telecommunication connection for effective execution of business transactions.

Geoffrey Kayonga, the Chief Executive Officer of Rwanda Information Communication Technology Association (RICTA) observed that the project covers the COMESA region, which gives Rwanda an opportunity to position itself as the communication and aerospace surveillance hub.

The mast is located in Musanze District, Northern Province.

The modern high altitude antenna on Mt. Karisimbi will also house a regional climate change observatory centre due to its strategic location.

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