Samsung Electronics Ltd has signed an agreement with the government to facilitate the rollout of information technology solutions.Samsung is a South Korean conglomerate whose industrial subsidiaries include Samsung Electronics, which is seen as one of the world’s largest information technology companies.The partnership is expected to play a key role in bridging the country’s digital divide while boosting its Vision 2020 long term economic and social development plan.With the signing of the agreement, through the Ministry of Youth and ICT, Rwanda becomes the first African state to make a concrete commitment and step forward in adopting Samsung e-Government solutions to aid in efficient service delivery.Among the highlights of the pact include collaboration in education and job creation development, youth leadership, consumer electronic devices and mobile applications development programmes featuring the Samsung Smart Government Solutions.The MoU may also see Rwanda adopt customised Samsung solutions such as a Solar Powered Internet School (SPIS).Speaking in Kigali during the signing ceremony, the Minister for Youth and ICT Jean Philbert Nsengimana confirmed that government is exploring feasible avenues to guide its e-Government rollout.“We are looking forward to working with Samsung Electronics in achieving Rwanda’s Vision 2020 of transforming the country into a middle income country and more specifically to develop access to ICT down to the administrative sector level,” he added.Rwanda is among the most dynamic developing countries in terms of ICT, according to the latest report by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).Speaking at the same ceremony, Samsung Electronics East Africa Managing Director, Jong Oh Lee said: “This strategic ICT partnership with the Rwandan Government will ensure a continued multiplier effect on economic growth as Samsung has gained extensive understanding and insight in all areas of government service.”
