MTN Rwanda has announced plans to expand its 5G internet network to several satellite cities surrounding Kigali.
The announcement was made on July 30, 2026, during the launch of the company’s new Voice over LTE (VoLTE) technology, which enables customers to make voice calls over the 4G internet network.
The new technology is designed to improve voice communication by delivering crystal-clear HD voice quality, faster call connection times, and the ability to continue using 4G internet seamlessly while on a call.
VoLTE Builds on Rwanda’s 5G Rollout
MTN Rwanda introduced the VoLTE service more than a year after becoming the first telecommunications company to launch 5G internet services in Rwanda in May 2025.
MTN Rwanda’s Chief Technology Officer, Elijah Iragaba, said that within a year of the 5G rollout, the network has expanded to cover many parts of Kigali as well as Musanze District in Northern Province.
He said.: When we launched 5G, our initial focus was Kigali. Today, I can confidently say it is available across many parts of the city. We have also extended the service to Musanze District to support tourism and provide residents with faster and more reliable internet connectivity,”
Satellite Cities Next in Expansion
Iragaba added that the company is now preparing to extend 5G coverage to other parts of the country, particularly satellite cities around Kigali.
“Although 5G is currently concentrated in Kigali and Musanze, our expansion plan includes satellite cities such as Rubavu, Rusizi, Nyagatare, and Rwamagana,” he said.
Rwanda Maintains Strong Internet Performance
Rwanda is currently ranked as the third-fastest internet market in Africa and 16th globally in internet speed.
Demand for 5G Devices Continues to Grow
Industry analysis also indicates that the number of people using 5G-enabled smartphones continues to grow by between 10% and 15% annually.
