Airtel Africa launches affordable 4G smartphone for Rwandan Market

By Joy Agwunobi.

Airtel Africa, a leading provider of telecommunications and mobile money services with a presence in 14 countries across Africa, has launched the most affordable 4G smartphone in Rwanda, in partnership with the Government of Rwanda, under the ConnectRwanda 2.0. initiative.

In partnership with the government of Rwanda, the digital inclusion and empowerment initiative by Airtel Africa aims to provide over 1 million people in the country with high-speed, cutting-edge LTE smartphones by 2024.

Airtel Africa has launched a 4G smartphone in Rwanda in partnership with the government of Rwanda, as part of its ConnectRwanda 2.0 initiative. The affordable device will provide more than 1 million people in the country with access to high-speed internet by 2024, empowering them with cutting-edge technology.

Speaking at a press conference, Segun Ogunsanya, Airtel Africa’s CEO,expressed his pleasure at being part of the ConnectRwanda 2.0 initiative, which will help transform Rwanda’s digital landscape. Ogunsanya stated that the initiative will give more Rwandans access to the internet and empower them to imagine and achieve their goals. The announcement was made ahead of the 2023 Mobile World Congress, highlighting the country’s commitment to digital inclusion.

Ogunsanya emphasized that Airtel Africa’s partnership with the government of Rwanda reflects its commitment to the country’s digital future. The CEO also highlighted the vital role that digital empowerment plays in socioeconomic development, pointing out that affordable smartphones have the potential to open up new opportunities for learning, business, and connection.

The affordable smartphone will cost 20,000 Rwandan Francs (around US$16.5), with a monthly fee of 1,000 Rwandan Francs (US$0.8). The device comes with 1GB of daily data and unlimited calls to any network in Rwanda, providing access to essential services and communication at an affordable price.

Paul Ingabire, Rwanda’s minister of ICT, explained that the government is committed to digitizing all its activities by 2024.

Ingabire, who was represented at the event by Gordon Kalema, the director general of digital transformation in the ministry, stated that the initiative is part of the government’s efforts to reach this goal. With affordable smartphones and connectivity, more Rwandans will have access to digital services, making the digitization of government activities more achievable.

Kalema congratulated Airtel Africa on the successful launch of its 4G smartphone offer and commended the company for believing in the government’s digitization vision. He also thanked Reed Hastings, co-founder and Chairman of Netflix, whose contribution helped make the initiative possible.