Airtel Rwanda has become the first telecom operator in the country to introduce Voice Over 4G (VoLTE) services, coinciding with the completion of a 100 per cent nationwide 4G network upgrade. The milestone offers users HD-quality voice calls, faster internet and the ability to browse data simultaneously during voice calls—all at 4G speeds. Speaking at a press event on Tuesday, November 20, Airtel Rwanda Managing Director Emmanuel Hamez, emphasised the company's commitment to advancing digital connectivity. “This is a proud moment for Airtel Rwanda as we pioneer VoLTE in the country, delivering crystal-clear voice quality, quicker call setups, and seamless multitasking during calls. With our 100 per cent 4G network covering 95 per cent of Rwanda, we ensure faster, more reliable internet access at no extra cost for VoLTE users,” he said. ALSO READ: Airtel Rwanda first to launch e-SIM Hamez explained the impact of VoLTE on traditional voice calls. “Previously, smartphone calls relied on older technology, often leading to dropped connections or poor quality. With HD voice clarity, the experience will rival the quality of a WhatsApp call, but on a regular phone call. Moreover, this technology reduces voice costs as it’s embedded in all our data services like streaming, gaming, and social networks,” he said. Airtel Rwanda’s bundles include unlimited calls, with options like 1GB of daily data for Rwf3,000, offering users the convenience of uninterrupted connectivity without per-minute charges. Hamez added, “Airtel is leading the market, and this innovation underscores our focus on providing value and staying ahead in Rwanda’s telecom sector.” ALSO READ: Airtel restates commitment to excellence in customer experience The benefits of VoLTE extend beyond convenience. It optimises network resources, enhances call quality with high-definition audio, and introduces faster connection times. Users can also access advanced features such as video calls, multimedia messaging, and file sharing. Furthermore, VoLTE reduces handset battery drain by up to 40 per cent compared to Voice over IP services. Airtel Rwanda’s introduction of VoLTE aligns with its commitment to affordable innovation. By embedding voice calls into data bundles, the service lowers the overall cost of voice communication. Managing Director Hamez emphasised the value of this integration, noting that unlimited calls are already included in Airtel’s bundles, offering customers seamless connectivity at no additional cost. ALSO READ: Airtel Rwanda launches its own 4G LTE network In addition to launching VoLTE, Airtel Rwanda celebrated the success of its “Connect Rwanda 2.0” campaign, which provided affordable 4G smartphones to low-income customers for just Rwf 20,000. This initiative has significantly increased smartphone penetration among Airtel users, rising from less than 10 per cent to over half of the customer base in just one year. “We are confident this ratio will reach 100 per cent within two years, in line with the National Broadband Policy,” Hamez stated. “VoLTE represents a critical step towards transitioning away from older 2G and 3G technologies, propelling Rwanda’s ICT sector into the future.” Airtel Rwanda also extended gratitude to the Government of Rwanda for fostering an environment that supports innovation and growth in the telecom industry. Hamez commended the leadership for its ‘forward-thinking policies,’ which have enabled the telecom sector to contribute meaningfully to national development. Charles Gahungu, General Manager of ICT Regulations at the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA), lauded Airtel Rwanda for its contributions to improving digital connectivity. “Innovations like VoLTE signify a new era of seamless communication, and Airtel’s leadership in this space is commendable,” Gahungu stated. He noted that the broadband policy has spurred greater technological adoption among network operators, adding, “Healthy competition benefits consumers by ensuring they have access to top-quality options. A monopoly, as we’ve seen in the past, doesn’t foster the same level of innovation or service excellence.” About Airtel Rwanda Airtel Rwanda, part of Airtel Africa, is a key player in Rwanda’s telecommunications sector, offering voice, data, Airtel Money, and a range of value-added services. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, Airtel Rwanda aims to provide reliable, affordable connectivity to empower communities nationwide. For more details about Airtel Rwanda’s VoLTE services and affordable smartphone initiatives, visit their website or follow their official social media channels.
