Free Wi-Fi internet access has become available in certain public spaces in Rwanda’s Kigali thanks to an initiative that plans to connect the city.

The initiative, called Smart Kigali, plans to modernise the lifestyle of the capital city’s residents and visitors through the use of technology.

Backers of the project include Rwanda’s Ministry of Youth and ICT (MYICT), the City of Kigali in partnership with Rwanda Development Board (RDB), Rwanda Utilities and Regulatory Agency (RURA), Rwanda Hotel and Restaurant Association and an unnamed telecoms operator.

An official from Rwanda's ICT ministry has told ITWeb Africa that free Wi-Fi has already been made available in certain public places including commercial buildings, bus stations, airport, public transport buses and cabs. 

“The free Wi-Fi in public places is available at Union Trade Center, Kigali City Tower, Kigali City Market, MTN Center, Nyabugogo Bus Park, Remera-Kisementi, Stade Amahoro, Kigali Public Library, Kanombe International Airport, KBC, Kacyiru Ministere, KIST and KIE,” said Magnifique Migisha, public relations and communications officer, ministry of youth & ICT

Kigali mayor, Fidele Ndayisaba added, “This is yet another step in advancing the use of ICT in our city and it will enhance service delivery, access to information for the city residents.”

“High speed internet connection and easy access will also make the visitors’ experience in Kigali more enjoyable,” Ndayisaba said.