Vision 2020 envisions a Rwanda that is technologically savvy, a regional ICT hub enjoying fast Internet and efficient tele-communication. This goal will only become a reality if there is investment in the telecommunication sector. That is why yesterday’s launch of Airtel Rwanda, a subsidiary of Bharti Airtel, as the third national telecom operator, is good news.The mobile phone has been proven to be a tool used in Africa to raise people’s standard of living. For instance, farmers use it to get information on market prices, and community health workers use it to offer better care to patients from wherever they are. The higher the mobile penetration rate, the higher the living standards. Currently, Rwanda’s mobile penetration rate stands at 46 per cent. There is certainly room for improvement. Telecoms regulator, Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Agency has targeted a 60 per cent mobile penetration by the end of the year, and Airtel Rwanda has a role to play in this.Almost 4.5 million Rwandans are being served by MTN and Tigo, Airtel will increase this number, especially if they invest the US$100 million (Rwf59.5 billion) in three years they’ve promised. Rwandans are waiting to see what Airtel will bring to the table. Its entry into the local market will certainly increase competition and this can only be good for the Rwandan customer. Lower prices and higher penetration rates will be the outcome of this competition.
