Rwanda Phases Out 2G, 3G Networks for Faster Services

• Rwanda plans to phase out older mobile network technologies by June 30, 2027.
• The shift aims to improve internet speeds, call quality, and access to digital services.
• Customers are advised to check if their devices and SIM cards support 4G and upgrade where necessary.
• Businesses and institutions using systems that rely on 2G or 3G technologies must begin migrating their services.

The shift aims to improve internet speeds, call quality, mobile money services, and access to digital services such as e-government, education, and health platforms.

Rwanda's Ministry of ICT and Innovation (MINICT) has announced plans to phase out older mobile network technologies, with a focus on freeing up network capacity for faster and more reliable services. The transition is being led by MINICT in collaboration with the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA). This move comes after a Cabinet meeting chaired by President Paul Kagame, which received a briefing on modernizing telecommunication infrastructure from 2G/3G to 4G/5G networks. The shift aims to improve internet speeds, call quality, mobile money services, and access to digital services such as e-government, education, and health platforms.

The retirement of 2G networks is expected to have a significant impact on mobile money services and access to digital services. To mitigate this, customers are advised to check whether their devices and SIM cards support 4G and upgrade where necessary. Businesses and institutions using systems that rely on 2G or 3G technologies have also been urged to begin migrating their services. The transition will be supported by pilot shutdowns in 2026 before the nationwide 3G switch-off, which is scheduled for June 30, 2027.

The Ministry of ICT and Innovation has emphasized that mobile operators and the public will be supported throughout the transition. A readiness assessment covering network coverage, service continuity, device availability, and customer migration will be conducted before the retirement of 2G networks. This assessment aims to ensure a seamless transition and minimize disruptions to services. The Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) will work closely with mobile operators to monitor progress and address any challenges that may arise during the transition.

Lawyers should advise clients to check if their devices and SIM cards support 4G and upgrade where necessary, as the retirement of 2G networks is expected to impact mobile money services and access to digital services.

Source: Original reporting via New Times