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Rwanda has achieved 38% internet penetration as of mid-2025, aligning with the African continent’s average, according to the latest data from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). This marks a steady climb from 34% in 2024, as the country pushes forward with its Vision 2050 and ICT Sector Strategic Plan (2024–2029), both of which prioritize digital inclusion as a cornerstone of socio-economic transformation.
With approximately 5.5 million active internet users in a population of 14.4 million, Rwanda is making progress in its ambition to achieve universal internet access by 2030. However, despite notable infrastructure advancements and increased mobile access, affordability—not availability—remains the biggest hurdle for millions still offline.
The recent rollout of 5G services by MTN Rwanda in June 2025 has further strengthened the nation’s digital infrastructure, which now includes 1,760 connectivity towers covering 96% of inhabited areas. An additional 840 towers are planned by 2028. The 5G network is expected to accelerate innovations across sectors including healthcare, education, and urban development.
Yet, digital infrastructure alone has not translated into inclusive access.
“Our internet penetration infrastructure has grown to 62%. But infrastructure alone isn’t inclusion,”
— Esther Kunda, Director General of Innovation and Emerging Technologies, Ministry of ICT and Innovation,
speaking to New Times Rwanda on June 9.
Kunda’s remarks reflect persistent disparities. While internet usage in urban areas stands at 57%, the rate plummets to just 19% in rural regions, according to findings from the EICV7 survey by the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda.
Device affordability is a core part of the problem. Just 34% of Rwandan households own a smartphone, and only 20% of the population uses mobile internet. The average smartphone costs $160, placing it far beyond the reach of many, especially in rural communities. Even with some of the lowest data rates on the continent—$0.81 per GB on MTN and $0.41 on Airtel—the cost of connectivity remains high for low-income earners. For Rwanda’s poorest households, the combined expense of purchasing a basic smartphone and 1GB of data can account for up to 60% of their monthly income.
“People in Rwanda still find it difficult to buy essential items, and you’re talking about data? People would rather feed themselves than buy a phone.”
— Magnus Mazimpaka, Kigali-based investigative journalist
Worryingly, recent fiscal policy changes threaten to deepen the affordability gap. A GSMA report has raised concerns over the government’s increase in excise duties from 10% to 12.5% and the reinstatement of an 18% VAT on imported handsets. These measures are expected to raise the cost of devices further, disproportionately impacting rural and economically disadvantaged populations.
Nonetheless, the government and private sector are not standing still. The Connect Rwanda initiative, a public-private partnership with MTN, is expanding smartphone access through donations and flexible financing schemes. In tandem, over 2,000 digital ambassadors have been deployed across Rwanda’s 30 districts to train citizens in using digital tools—with an additional 855 slated for deployment in early 2025.
These efforts are yielding results. Digital literacy rates have surged to 75%, surpassing the national target of 60% set for 2024. This indicates that a growing number of Rwandans are prepared to embrace digital technologies—if the financial barriers can be addressed.
As Rwanda advances toward its 2030 connectivity targets, bridging the affordability divide remains the most pressing challenge. Without urgent policy intervention to lower the cost of devices and services, the country’s digital progress risks leaving millions behind.
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