Airtel Rwanda has launched a highly affordable 4G smartphone as part of the government of Rwanda’s ConnectRwanda2.0 initiative.
Residents of Kayonza district will be among the first to benefit from this pioneering venture.
By the end of 2024, this strategic effort aims to put a high-speed, cutting-edge smartphone in the hands of over one million Rwandans, many of whom will be experiencing the digital world for the first time.
This smartphone is now offered at a highly discounted price of Rwf20,000.
Subscribers are eligible for unlimited calls and texts, and a 1GB of 4G data daily, all for a monthly fee of just Rwf1,000.
All other Airtel smartphone customers will enjoy new rates as follows: Rwf3,000 monthly 1GB of 4G data daily + unlimited calls and SMS.
Rwf5,000 monthly 2GB of 4G data daily + unlimited calls and SMS.
This offering has been made possible in part through the philanthropic support of Reed Hastings, former Executive Chairman of Netflix, who has generously contributed to smartphone affordability under the initiative, in partnership with Airtel and ConnectRwanda 2.0.
Emmanuel Hamez, Managing Director of Airtel Rwanda, said that Airtel Rwanda is extremely grateful to be able to join forces with the Government of Rwanda’s ConnectRwanda2.0 initiative, to pave the way for a digital revolution.
“We are immensely proud to be part of this initiative that promises to foster Rwanda’s digital access, starting right here in Kayonza, Eastern Province.”
Paula Ingabire, Minister of ICT and Innovation graced the launch.
“This exciting partnership between Airtel Rwanda and Netflix founder Reed Hastings marks a significant milestone towards unlocking smartphone affordability,” she said.
Minister Ingabire added that today, smartphone ownership in Rwanda stands at 27% and the biggest barrier to smartphone ownership has been affordability.
“The launch of this smartphone financing initiative is a continuation of the Connect Rwanda initiative and it is well aligned with our policy to drive inclusive and accessible broadband connectivity across Rwanda.”
The initiative represents an ambitious effort by the Government of Rwanda and the industry to accelerate the adoption of digital technologies, narrowing the technological gap and propelling the nation into a more connected and promising future, which includes providing citizens with smartphones as a key component of the digital transformation agenda.
Rwanda like India now in data rates. Less than $3/month for unlimited everything, and good 4G phones available for less than $20. Airtel + subsidies from me. Jio tranformed India digital and Airtel now doing that in Rwanda. Unlimited data = freedom to learn. https://t.co/g7y9W8JSEF
— Reed Hastings (@reedhastings) October 16, 2023
