Rwanda Showcases Tech Innovations at MWC 2026

At the Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona, Rwanda showcased how digital technology can transform humanitarian support. Eraste Turangwa, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of ICT and Innovation, joined the GSMA “Lifeline for the Displaced” roundtable to highlight Rwanda’s innovative use of digital tools for refugees and displaced communities.

Connectivity as a Critical Tool

Turangwa emphasized that digital access is no longer a luxury but a lifeline. For the over 130,000 refugees hosted in Rwanda, connectivity enables access to:

• Essential information and services
• Education and online learning
• Economic opportunities
• Humanitarian aid coordination

“Connectivity ensures safety, access, and opportunity for vulnerable communities,” Turangwa said, underscoring how technology underpins both day-to-day life and emergency response.

Rwanda’s Tech-Driven Initiatives

Rwanda is deploying several digital solutions to empower displaced populations:

• Digital ID coverage: Refugees can access healthcare, banking, and government services through secure digital identification.
• Early warning systems: Technology platforms detect and alert communities about natural disasters, improving safety and resilience.
• Digital Ambassadors programme: Volunteers expand digital literacy and connectivity awareness, bridging the digital gap in refugee camps.

These initiatives demonstrate how Rwanda is using technology not just for inclusion but as a practical tool for safety and development.

Global Collaboration on Digital Humanitarian Solutions

The roundtable brought together leaders from GSMA, ITU, UN agencies, mobile operators, and governments, all exploring how technology can enhance humanitarian response. Rwanda’s model offers scalable digital solutions for refugee support across Africa, combining innovation with social impact.

As digital inclusion becomes increasingly vital, Rwanda illustrates that tech-driven approaches can improve safety, education, and livelihoods, positioning the country as a leader in leveraging technology for humanitarian and development outcomes.

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